UN Envoy Calls for Accelerated Recovery Support for Syria
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has called upon the global community to significantly ramp up support for recovery and development efforts in Syria, citing the substantial momentum generated by the return of over three million Syrians since December 2024. The appeal comes at the conclusion of a week-long visit by the High Commissioner to the country, intended to assess the current humanitarian situation and ongoing efforts to facilitate stability.
In a statement marking the end of his visit, the High Commissioner described Syria as standing at a critical historical juncture. He highlighted that the return of more than three million citizens, both from abroad and from various regions within the country, serves as a clear indication of a collective determination among the population to rebuild their lives and their nation. He emphasized that the scale of this recovery process is immense, asserting that it is a task which Syria cannot realistically accomplish in isolation. Consequently, he issued a strong call for the international community to act with urgency to support the transition from emergency relief toward sustainable development.
During his stay, the High Commissioner met with President Ahmed al-Sharaa at the Presidential Palace in Damascus. The meeting, which was also attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Asaad Hassan al-Shibani, focused on deepening the cooperation between the Syrian government and the UN Refugee Agency. Key topics of discussion included the establishment of stronger frameworks to facilitate the voluntary and safe return of refugees, as well as the implementation of various livelihood and early recovery projects designed to improve the daily conditions for returnees.
The High Commissioner’s itinerary included field visits to the provinces of Damascus, Idlib, and Aleppo. Throughout these visits, he held consultations with government officials, representatives from local communities, displaced families, and citizens who have recently returned to their homes. These engagements were designed to provide the UN delegation with firsthand insight into the progress achieved so far, as well as the persistent challenges that continue to face the country as it navigates the path toward integration.
The UN agency underscored its commitment to supporting Syria as the nation transitions away from years of displacement and works toward achieving long-term stability. The High Commissioner’s appeal specifically urged international governments and development partners to translate the current trend of returning Syrians into concrete, tangible assistance. This includes targeted investment in critical areas such as basic infrastructure, essential services, and programs that promote economic self-sufficiency, while maintaining a necessary response to the significant humanitarian needs that remain in various regions.
