More than 25,000 Syrian refugees have returned to their homeland since the recent overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, marking what Turkish officials describe as a pivotal moment in the region's long-standing crisis. This surge of returns, reported by Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, showcases the significant shift among the Syrian populace living in Turkey, where nearly 3 million refugees have found temporary safety since the onset of the civil war over a decade ago.
Yerlikaya stated recently, "The number of people returning to Syria in the last 15 days has exceeded 25,000," emphasizing this is far above the average monthly return rate of approximately 11,000. The increasing optimism among Syrians stems from the fall of the Baathist regime, which many believe could signal improvements for safety and stability back home. According to the latest survey conducted by Istanbul-based Areda, about 91% of Syrian refugees are pleased with the ousting of Assad and 71.5% hold hope for their country's future.
Facilitated by the Turkish government, the return process has been organized to prioritize both safety and voluntary participation. Refugees interested in going back are screened at migration authority offices at border crossings, and prior to their departure, authorities inquire about their living arrangements upon return. "Even so, people are very enthusiastic about returning to their homeland," Yerlikaya remarked during interviews with the Anadolu Agency.
Among the refugees living temporarily under protection status, it is noteworthy to mention the demographic impact; over half of those individuals are under 18 years old, indicating the generational shift taking place within this community. Over 763,000 have returned to Syria since 2017, with the Turkish government adapting its policies to make the return more feasible now, as conditions have begun to change following Assad's regime's weakening.
Minister Yerlikaya highlighted the adjustments made to return policies: One family member per household will be granted the opportunity to enter and exit Turkey three times over the next few years, under regulations set to take effect starting January 1, 2024. This initiative aims to help returning families make preparations for their new lives back in Syria, including taking their belongings and vehicles. Yerlikaya noted, “The new administration is still establishing its interior ministry,” adding, “We have records of displaced Syrians, but the administration does not have proper records as terrorist groups and the former regime destroyed archives.”
For the first time, Turkey has resumed diplomatic relations with Syria's new administration, reopening its embassy nearly 12 years after it was closed at the outbreak of civil unrest. Plans are also underway to set up migration management offices within the embassy and consulate located in Damascus and Aleppo, responsibilities aimed at helping integrate and keep track of returning Syrians effectively.
Humanitarian efforts have continued as Turkish charities work to provide housing for returnees. More than 110,000 families currently reside in houses constructed for them across Turkey’s safer regions. The Turkish government has also coordinated previous aid deliveries including 316 truckloads of flour to Syria recently. Despite the dire circumstances back home, the desire to return remains strong among those who long for stability.
While many refugees are eager to return, the reality of the situation remains complex. The dire economic status of Syria poses significant challenges, as it is estimated the economy is still on the brink of collapse. Yet, many displaced individuals are still prepared to face these adversities once they arrive back to their former residences.
With the prospect of change looming over Syria following the regime shift, the environment is ripe for discussions about the future of millions of Syrians who have sought refuge overseas. A total of approximately 45.5% of those surveyed expressed they would return home if conditions continue to improve — showcasing the resilience and willingness of this community.
Returning refugees will also be subject to strict requirements, where they must secure travel permits and sign documents stating their return is voluntary. Turkish officials have even noted the influx of requests from humanitarian and business organizations interested in visiting Syria to assist and invest during this new chapter, demonstrating the potential for rebuilding efforts.
Turkey’s commitment to facilitating safe returns to Syria, backed by the Turkish government's initial open-door policy over the years, suggests proactive steps toward ensuring these repatriations are handled with dignity. The focus now shifts to rebuilding lives and addressing the needs of those returning to their homeland, as their journeys toward recovery begin anew.
