2023•02•08
A new UNU-CPR Discussion Paper examines Lebanon’s repatriation plan for Syrians within its borders, currently estimated at 1.5 million people.
As Lebanon continues to endure an increasingly alarming array of political, economic, social, and health crises, the country’s political leaders have announced plans to repatriate 15,000 Syrians each month, insisting that the conflict in Syria is over and the country has become safe.
According to Lebanese authorities, the Syrian Government has also confirmed that it is ready to receive repatriated Syrians and provide them with everything they need – from transportation to hospitalization and education.
However, Lebanon has not demonstrated how it conclusively determined that Syria is now safe. The country has also confirmed that returns will take place without the involvement of UNHCR – which has raised concerns about whether repatriation can be a long-term and sustainable solution for displaced Syrians.
Amid increased discussion on repatriation, particularly for Syrians at the regional level, the paper examines what this process looks like for Syrian refugees from Lebanon, whilst framing it alongside notions of political will, protection, as well as preconditions for safe return.
Given that voluntary repatriation and safe return often overlap, the paper explores this intersection amid larger conversations surrounding the Lebanese Government’s approach to return, the stance of UNHCR and its role, as well as regional and international conversations on how return can take place durably and sustainably.
The paper argues that Lebanon’s policy on repatriation must include the following elements in order to ensure that repatriation is a durable solution for Syrians and conforms with international refugee law:
Read the Discussion Paper, ‘Safe Return and Voluntary Repatriation for Syrian Refugees from Lebanon: What Needs to Happen Next?’ here.