Recent developments in Syria are raising hopes for peace and reconstruction. After more than 14 years of conflict, Syria has an unprecedented opportunity to move towards peace, with its people beginning to return home. However, the situation remains uncertain. Millions of refugees are carefully evaluating whether they can return safely. Some are eager, others hesitant. This uncertainty also concerns the approximately 20,000 Syrian refugees living in Switzerland.
These individuals are closely following the situation in their home country, torn between hope for a return and apprehension about a still fragile stability. It is important to remember that Europe currently hosts over 1.2 million Syrian refugees, including more than 700,000 in Germany and nearly 45,000 in France. Turkey is home to more than 3 million, further highlighting the scale of the crisis and the need for global support.
UNHCR’s position: caution and patience
The fall of a regime does not automatically lead to a return to safety. “We must be patient and vigilant to ensure that the situation on the ground improves, allowing for safe, voluntary, and sustainable returns. Refugees must be able to make informed decisions,” emphasizes Anja Klug, Head of the UNHCR office for Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
A humanitarian challenge and an opportunity for Switzerland
Humanitarian needs in Syria remain enormous. With destroyed infrastructure and more than 90% of the population dependent on humanitarian aid, urgent assistance is needed. UNHCR is committed to providing this aid and calls on all parties to facilitate its delivery. As a country with a long humanitarian tradition, Switzerland and its people can play a crucial role in this crisis. This aid is even more important as winter approaches. All displaced people in Syria will need shelter, food, water, and warmth.
"Each person can make a difference. It is important that UNHCR and its partners have the necessary resources to respond quickly and effectively, including in the neighbouring countries that still host millions of refugees. These countries need international support to maintain their exceptional solidarity and generosity," says Anja Klug.
A Pivotal Moment for the International Community
The Syrian crisis remains one of the world’s most severe, with more than 90% of the population relying on humanitarian aid. This moment is critical: the opportunity to transform the crisis into a stable and peaceful future for Syrians must not be missed.
UNHCR reiterates its call for all parties involved to act now so that this moment becomes a turning point towards hope, recovery, and sustainable peace and stability for the Syrian people.
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