February 7, 2025, 12:34 pm, by MenaLive

UN Refugee Agency Seeks $370.9 Million for Voluntary Return of 1.5 Million Syrians in 2025

The UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, requests $370.9 million to facilitate the spontaneous and organized voluntary return of up to 1.5 million Syrians from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon and Türkiye in 2025, based on best-case scenario planning figures, and provide returnees with essential support once in Syria.

They will join more than 270.00 Syrians (as of February 5) who have returned to the country since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad on 8 December 2024. 

In January 2025, UNHCR surveyed 3,400 Syrian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, and Egypt on their return intentions.

Key findings:

- 80% of refugees hope to return to Syria one day, up from 57% in April 2024.

 - 27% intend to return within 12 months, a sharp rise from 1.7% in 2024.

 - 53% of those undecided or unwilling to return now plan to do so within five years.

- Return intentions vary by country, influenced by security and conflict impact. 

- Women are less likely to return within a year (23%).