As of March 14, 2025, UNHCR indicates that approximately 354,900 Syrians have returned to Syria since December 2024. A new Constitutional Declaration has been enacted, integrating the Syrian Democratic Forces into state institutions, with potential implications for political transition. Recent violence in several Syrian regions has caused civilian casualties and displacement.
As of March 14, 2025, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reports that approximately 354,900 Syrians have returned to Syria from neighboring countries since December 8, 2024. These figures are derived from a combination of information gathered from both within and outside Syria, encompassing registered refugees with UNHCR as well as additional Syrians entering from Türkiye, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and other regions.
On March 13, the Caretaker Authorities enacted a Constitutional Declaration, succeeding the announcement on March 10 regarding the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the state institutions of Syria. This move has been positively recognized by UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen, who expressed hope that the declaration would establish a strong legal basis for a credible and inclusive political transition aimed at restoring the rule of law.
Since March 6, renewed hostilities in regions such as Tartous, Lattakia, Homs, and Hama have led to numerous civilian casualties, significant property and infrastructure damage, and the displacement of thousands of residents in the coastal areas of Syria.
The current situation reflects a complex and evolving crisis in Syria, with significant implications for both internal and external stakeholders. UNHCR continues to monitor these developments closely, ensuring support for returning populations and addressing humanitarian needs as they arise.
The UNHCR’s latest update underscores the ongoing challenges within Syria, including significant refugee returns and escalating violence in coastal regions. The enactment of a Constitutional Declaration by Syrian Caretaker Authorities potentially paves the way for a legitimate political transition but remains overshadowed by the urgent humanitarian crisis faced by many civilians affected by the conflict.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
