Damascus, Syria – Dozens of Syrian refugees returned from Lebanon on Tuesday as part of a voluntary repatriation program coordinated by the United Nations, Syrian and Lebanese authorities, according to the Syrian state news agency (SANA).
The first organized convoy brought back 72 refugees, with returnees heading to areas including Homs province, and towns in Rural Damascus such as Qatana, Zabadani, Nashabiyeh, and Darayya, UNHCR spokesperson Céline Schmitt said.
The UN refugee agency is supporting the returnees with transportation, reintegration support, and access to community centres offering legal assistance, psychosocial services, and livelihood opportunities.
More than 17,000 refugees in Lebanon have registered for the voluntary and informed return program as of July 14, according to UNHCR. Registered families receive counselling on the procedures and consequences of return.
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Since December 8, 2023, an estimated 719,801 Syrians have returned from neighbouring countries, including over 205,000 from Lebanon, Schmitt added.
The voluntary return program, while supported by UNHCR, remains controversial amid concerns about conditions inside Syria. The agency continues to advocate for safe, dignified, and informed returns, in line with international protection standards.
