Syrian Refugees Face Increasing Hostility: A Grim Reality
Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Turkey continue to face challenges as they are met with increasing hostility. The Syrian Network for Human Rights (SNHR) reported that since 2014, 4,714 Syrian refugees who returned to their country have been detained by Assad regime forces, with many facing ongoing abuse and violations.
Of those detained, 1,383 remain in custody, while 969 have been forcibly disappeared. The SNHR highlighted that returning refugees experience the same violations and lack of legal protection as local residents in Syria.
In Lebanon, where 1.5 million Syrian refugees reside, discrimination and hostility have escalated. Amnesty International denounced Lebanon’s “voluntary” return campaign, citing risks of abuse upon refugees’ return to Syria.
Additionally, tens of thousands of Syrian refugees have been forcibly returned from Turkey, with SNHR documenting deaths under torture and cases of sexual violence against returnees.
The SNHR emphasized that forced repatriation of refugees violates international law, holding governments responsible for refugees’ safety. With ongoing violence in Syria, many Syrians continue to flee, facing poverty and insecurity.
As the refugee crisis persists, it is evident that Syrian refugees need continued support and protection, as returning to Syria remains a dangerous prospect.