Syrian Arab Republic

Syria remains one of the world’s most complex and protracted humanitarian crises. As of December 2024, a fundamental shift in the political and security landscape has introduced new dynamics, with a transitional government now in place following a change of power in Damascus. Despite this development, the situation remains volatile, with recent hostilities causing further damage to already fragile infrastructure and exacerbating humanitarian needs. More than 8.1 million people in Syria are in need of protection, and over 7.4 million remain internally displaced – one of the largest IDP populations in the world.

Over the past 14 years, the conflict has forced more than 13 million people from their homes, including over 6.1 million Syrian refugees living primarily in Türkiye, Lebanon, Jordan, and beyond. The deterioration of conditions in Lebanon in late 2024 triggered the movement of over half a million people back into Syria. Meanwhile, return dynamics are shifting: in 2024, UNHCR verified the return of over 476,000 refugees and recorded the return of 376,000 internally displaced persons, significantly higher than in previous years.

UNHCR continues to operate in Syria through a network of field offices, including via its Cross-Border operation from Türkiye, which has been essential for delivering aid to non-government-controlled areas in the northwest since 2014 (following UNSC resolution 2165).

UNHCR is scaling up support for spontaneous returnees, working in close coordination with host governments and partners to ensure conditions of safety, dignity, and sustainability. Amid a fluid political environment, hopes for peace and stability are emerging, but lasting solutions remain contingent on inclusive governance, sustained humanitarian support, and significant international investment.