U.S. Report: Nearly 20,000 Uyghurs Living in Syria

U.S. Report: Nearly 20,000 Uyghurs Living in Syria
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A U.S.-cited report says nearly 20,000 Uyghurs, including women and children, have settled in northern Syria since 2012, mainly around Idlib and Jisr al-Shughur.

According to the report, many entered Syria through Turkey after facing residency difficulties and fear of deportation to China. Uyghur communities have since established businesses, fuel stations, and schools teaching in the Uyghur language.

The report estimates that around 4,000 Uyghur fighters remain in Syria, while more than 1,000 have been killed during the war. China has expressed concern over their presence, fearing possible militant activity linked to Xinjiang.

Syria’s interim government says Uyghurs do not pose a threat and that integrating them could support stability. However, some Syrians remain concerned about foreign fighters, extremist influence, and property disputes in Christian- and Shia-majority areas.

Recent talks reportedly led to the return of some homes and lands, as questions continue over the future of foreign armed groups in Syria.