Syria's Returnees Face Challenges Amid Aid Cuts

Over 3 million Syrians have returned after the Assad regime's collapse, but decreased global funding poses challenges. UNHCR warns of potential reversal without support, with 5 million Syrians still abroad. Humanitarian aid is insufficient, impacting healthcare and infrastructure, and unexploded ordnance continues to hinder recovery efforts.

Over 3 million Syrians have made the journey back home after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, but the lack of global funding is threatening future returns, warned the U.N. refugee agency on Monday.

The UNHCR reported that 1.2 million refugees, along with 1.9 million internally displaced persons, have returned since the civil war ended with Assad's overthrow. However, millions more remain displaced. UNHCR emphasizes heightened support to sustain this return trend.

UNHCR head, Filippo Grandi, expressed concern over potential reversals, urging major international donors to increase their contributions. As only 29% of Syria's $3.19 billion humanitarian response plan is funded, essential services like healthcare face significant strains. Meanwhile, unexploded ordnance removal efforts remain grossly underfunded, thwarting recovery initiatives.

(With inputs from agencies.)