On January 18, 2025, Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, announced that 195,200 Syrians have returned to their country following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. Grandi emphasized that the UNHCR is increasing support for returning refugees and their host communities, coinciding with his upcoming visit to Syria.
Additionally, over 550,000 Syrian refugees previously returned from Lebanon due to the escalating conflict involving Hezbollah and Israel. Since the onset of the Syrian civil war, more than six million individuals have fled the country, according to UN estimates.
During a summit in Saudi Arabia on January 12, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock pledged an additional 50 million euros in humanitarian assistance to the new Syrian authorities. This funding will support food provision, temporary housing, and medical care through the World Food Programme and various NGOs.
Baerbock also advocated for the gradual lifting of certain sanctions on Damascus, while maintaining restrictions against individuals responsible for severe crimes under Assad's rule. She urged EU countries to adopt a 'smart approach' to sanctions relief, aimed at promoting stability and facilitating a peaceful transition of power, alongside a clear and inclusive political dialogue involving all Syrians, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.