Nearly 850,000 refugees abroad and approximately 1,7 million internally displaced persons have returned to their homes since December 8, 2024, the minister said in statements broadcast by the national television station Ikhbariya TV. Barniyeh noted that these figures reflect a state of stability and optimism, although he acknowledged the significant challenges the Syrian government faces in ensuring the well-being and reintegration of returnees.

The minister made these statements during a meeting with the director of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Syria.

The meeting assessed progress regarding the return of refugees and displaced persons, and discussed mechanisms to expand cooperation and strengthen support programs, in parallel with ongoing reconstruction and development initiatives. Barniyeh emphasized the importance of the UN’s role in creating favorable conditions for voluntary return, while urging attention to the logistical and economic challenges that still hinder this process.

For its part, UNHCR reiterated its commitment to maintaining cooperation with the Syrian government, despite the material difficulties and the devastation of infrastructure in several areas of the country.

abo/arm/mem/fm