“A year on, Syrians are showing extraordinary resolve as they return to shattered communities and start again,” said Australia for UNHCR’s CEO, Trudi Mitchell.
“But they are returning to a country where infrastructure is severely damaged, neighbourhoods are destroyed and livelihoods are scarce,” she said.
Since December 2024, more than 1.2 million Syrian refugees have returned home from neighbouring countries, alongside nearly two million people who were displaced inside Syria.
Millions more remain in neighbouring host countries, where many still rely on humanitarian assistance while weighing the safety and feasibility of returning.
“Our continued focus must be on supporting both those who have already returned and those who remain in neighbouring countries,” said Ms Mitchell. “This solidarity is essential to help families rebuild their lives in areas of return and to ensure that refugees in host countries can meet their basic needs.”
A recent UNHCR survey showed that 80 per cent of Syrian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt and Iraq hope to return home, with 18 per cent aiming to do so in the next year.
Those who have returned face daunting challenges. Homes and public services remain in ruins, livelihoods are limited, and security conditions vary across the country. In some cases, families are repairing a single room for an entire family just to have shelter for the winter.
UNHCR is working with authorities and partners to help families regain stability, including through cash assistance, transport, home repairs, documentation, essential relief items and livelihoods programs.
However, funding cuts mean only a fraction of those in need can be reached. As many as 750,000 people could be left without vital support for winter in the months ahead.
“Syrians have shown remarkable resilience, both inside their country and across the region,” Ms Mitchell said. “But they cannot rebuild alone. This is a turning point, and global solidarity is essential.”
Ms Mitchell encouraged Australians to continue supporting humanitarian efforts.
“Australia has a proud record of compassion in supporting Syrians over the past decade or more,” she said. “I urge Australians to stand with Syrians at this critical moment so they can rebuild their lives with dignity.”
Note to editors:
Australia for UNHCR CEO Trudi Mitchell has recently returned from visiting UNHCR programs in Syria and Jordan, where she met with refugee families and recent returnees. To arrange an interview with Ms Mitchell, please contact:
Kelsey Taylor
Senior Media & Communications Manager, Australia for UNHCR
E: [email protected] | M: 0450 322 320