The United Nations has projected that around one million Syrians could return to their homeland in the first half of 2025, following the collapse of President Bashar Assad’s regime earlier this month.
The UNHCR’s Middle East and North Africa director, Rema Jamous Imseis, described the developments as a source of hope for resolving the world’s largest displacement crisis. However, she cautioned that regime change does not end Syria’s humanitarian challenges, urging host countries not to force refugees to return prematurely and to uphold their asylum rights.
European countries are divided on the issue, with some freezing asylum claims amid growing pressure from far-right groups to deport refugees. Meanwhile, over one million Syrians have been newly displaced in the last three weeks, particularly women and children.
Jamous Imseis emphasized the need for a gradual and safe return process while assessing the risks faced by emerging vulnerable groups in Syria’s new political landscape.
