New Report: Challenging Economy and Unemployment Main Obstacles for Syria Returnees
Geneva/ Damascus, 14 May 2025 – A new report from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) shows that the lack of economic opportunities and essential services pose the greatest challenge for Syrians returning to their communities, highlighting the critical need for international support to help Syria recover.
"Syrians are resilient and innovative, but they need significant help to rebuild their communities and their lives. Enabling Syrians to return to a country that is on the path to stability and progress is critical for the country’s future," said IOM Director General Amy Pope.
The Communities of Return Index Report assessed conditions in 1,100 communities and neighbourhoods between March and April, where approximately 1.87 million displaced Syrians – both internally displaced and returnees from abroad – have already returned.
According to the report, many communities face unreliable access to electricity, clean water, and healthcare, while gaps in civil documentation hinder returnees from accessing essential services or claiming housing and land rights.
Livelihood opportunities are scarce, as agricultural activity and local markets struggle to recover. At the same time, shelter reconstruction is slow, and unresolved property issues continue to stagnate long-term reintegration.
"IOM reactivated its data collection capacities in Syria, and this report is our latest contribution in guiding evidence-based humanitarian, recovery and other efforts in charting a better future for Syria and its people," added DG Pope.
According to IOM’s latest Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) report, the number of IDPs declined slightly in April 2025 to around 6.6 million, compared to more than 6.7 million in March. Since January 2024, IOM has recorded over 1.3 million IDP returnees and nearly 730,000 arrivals from abroad.
As it reestablishes its presence in Damascus, IOM aims to address immediate humanitarian and recovery needs while promoting a conducive environment for peaceful, voluntary and sustainable returns.
This includes shelter rehabilitation, distribution of life-saving items and expanding property records database to support secure documentation, restitution, and dispute resolution for displaced populations in Syria.
Note to Editors
IOM has recently announced its Syria crisis response plan for 2025 appealing for USD 100 million to target about 1.4 million people in Syria with critical aid and support.
For more information, please contact IOM Media Centre
