In a significant diplomatic move, Syria’s new administration, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, is actively collaborating with the United Nations to ensure the safe return of Syrian refugees.
On January 25, 2025, Ahmed al-Sharaa met with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi in Damascus. While specific details of their discussion were not disclosed, this meeting underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the refugee situation.
In a related development, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has called upon the international community to support the repatriation of Syrian refugees. He emphasized that Lebanon can no longer bear the burden of hosting a large refugee population and highlighted that the conditions prompting their displacement have been addressed. Since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad, over 195,000 Syrians have returned from Lebanon and Jordan. A recent UNHCR survey indicates a significant increase in refugees willing to return, rising from 1% to 30% in a few weeks.
These initiatives reflect a concerted effort by Syria’s new leadership and neighboring countries to facilitate the safe and voluntary return of refugees, aiming to rebuild communities and restore stability in the region.
