UNHCR: We Support the Right of Syrian Displaced Persons to Return Home Freely

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has affirmed its support for the right of Syrian displaced persons to return freely to their homeland "whenever they choose to do so." UNHCR spokesperson Dala Harb stated, "We support and respect the humanitarian right of displaced persons to return freely and voluntarily to their home country when they choose, in accordance with international principles and non-refoulement." She noted that "most Syrian displaced persons express a desire to return to Syria, but their decision is based on various factors, including safety, security, housing, access to essential services, and securing livelihoods." Harb emphasized the commitment to continue cooperating with the General Directorate of General Security in Lebanon, which facilitates the return of displaced persons who express a desire to go back to Syria by registering their names. She highlighted that the cooperation with General Security and other entities involves engaging with displaced persons and providing them with advice, whenever possible, and being present at departure points before their return.