<
div>From Kelly Clements, UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner, comes a strong call for action after a recent trip to Lebanon and Syria. She doesn’t mince words: the eyes of the world must not just watch from the sidelines. It’s crucial to act, to actively aid in the stabilization and rebuilding of Syria, helping its people reclaim and redefine their nation.
Over 1.2 million Individuals have already triumphed in their journey back home since the Assad government’s fall last December, among them, about 850,000 who have transitioned back from Lebanon and other neighboring regions.
UNHCR’s efforts have ramped up to back those who decide to return home, ensuring the process is carried out with dignity and assurance. It includes providing financial and transport assistance.
Further within Syria, over 1.7 million internally displaced people have chosen to return home, with more than 880,000 moving out of displaced camps in the north.
Cooperation is Key
During her visit, Kelly Clements held conversations with top government officials, individuals who have recently made the choice to return back to Syria, and refugees who have newly arrived in Lebanon.
Her discussions with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and his cabinet were affirmative, acknowledging the hospitality Syria’s neighbors have shown and pledging enhanced collaboration in supporting voluntary returns.
Since January, around 200,000 Syrian refugees have returned from Lebanon alone, with many more planning to follow, encouraged further by the lifting of overstay fees.
Ms. Clements also had a meaningful encounter with a group of Syrian refugees who had made Lebanon their refuge only in recent months, fleeing the latest wave of violence in their home country.
“There’s a clear movement of Syrians returning, as well as new arrivals seeking refuge,” she highlighted. “Continuing international support for Lebanon and UNHCR’s programs is essential.”
Rebuilding Together
In Syria, Clements consulted with Social Affairs Minister Hind Kabawat and the governors of Homs and Idleb. She also conversed with those who’ve returned, listening to their aspirations of reconstructing their lives and their country.
“Seeing firsthand the determination people have to return and rebuild – to stay and pursue a future despite the devastation of war – it’s truly remarkable,” she observed.
UNHCR and its partners are scaling up their support in areas where the number of returnees is high.
Clements’ visits included rural areas of Damascus, where she met individuals who’ve received shelter help and support to start small-scale businesses. She also played a part in the inauguration of a newly supported civil registry office in Idleb.
She emphatically stated, “UNHCR and its allies are on the ground doing what’s needed, but there’s so much more to achieve. The international community’s pledge to back these efforts is indispensable.”
Source: https://news.un.org/feed/view/en/story/2025/09/1165763
