The Longing for Home: Syrians Weigh Their Return as War-torn Syria Seeks Reconstruction

The complexities of returning home are weighing heavily on the minds of many Syrians living in Turkey, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024. While some are eager to go back, ongoing challenges in Syria and evolving circumstances in Turkey complicate their plans for repatriation.

Why It Matters

The situation for Syrian refugees in Turkey is critical, especially considering the humanitarian context and political factors influencing their return. With over 3.5 million Syrians having sought refuge in Turkey since the Civil War began in 2011, the prospect of returning home signals both hope for rebuilding a fractured nation and the reality of significant barriers that remain.

Key Developments

• More than half a million Syrians have returned to Syria since December 2024.
• Young refugees express optimism about future conditions in Syria despite the current challenges.
• Reports indicate potential pressures from Turkish authorities encouraging Syrians to leave.
• Concerns are rising over renewed xenophobic rhetoric in Turkish politics ahead of upcoming elections.
• Syrian families are balancing the desire for a safe return with the realities of safety and infrastructure needs.

Full Report

Eager for Return

Eighteen-year-old Ahmed, who fled Syria at the age of five, is among those longing to return. Sporting a T-shirt emblazoned with “Syria,” he plans to go back within a couple of years, motivated by hope for a brighter future. “Syria will be rebuilt and it will be like gold,” he remarked as he reflected on his aspirations.

Similarly, Aya Mustafa, 32, continuously discusses the potential for returning to her hometown of Aleppo with her community. Despite their longing, she points out the difficulties that lie ahead, particularly concerning the destruction left by war and the challenges faced by families with children born in Turkey. “Many families can’t even speak Arabic,” she noted, emphasizing that careful planning is essential for any organized return.

Skepticism Among Syrians

Yet, for others like the father of two teenagers who runs an aid organization, the prospect of returning is firmly off the table. His strong assertions highlight ongoing issues such as economic instability, inadequate security, and a lack of experienced governance in Syria. He fears that conditions have not improved since the interim government took over, stating, “Every day there are killings. Regardless of who the victims are, they have souls.”

This sentiment reflects a larger wave of skepticism. While some are waiting for improved conditions before a return, organizations continue to provide vital assistance, indicating that many refugees may still see Turkey as their safest option for now.

The Political Landscape

Turkey’s government, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has officially declared that no Syrian will be forcibly returned. However, advocates for refugees express concern over recent changes, including the cessation of free medical care for Syrians and increased economic pressures impacting employment opportunities. As new elections loom, the potential for shifts in policy regarding Syrian refugees raises alarm among community leaders. “There might be some policy changes,” warned Metin Corabatir from the Turkish research center IGAM.

Family Connections

While some look toward an uncertain future, there are also moments of joy. Mahmud Sattouf, a teacher who holds Turkish citizenship, is returning to Syria for a visit, expressing joy at the thought of reuniting with his homeland. “I will be the most happy man in the world,” he said, hinting at plans to fully relocate once conditions stabilize.

Context & Previous Events

The Syrian Civil War has driven millions to seek refuge in various countries, with Turkey becoming the largest host nation. Over the past decade, Turkey’s initial embracing of Syrian refugees has led to growing political tensions, and subsequent changes in public sentiment have complicated the integration process. The ousting of Assad’s regime in late 2024 has sparked discussions regarding repatriation, but significant hurdles remain for both those eager to return and those uncertain of abandoning the lives they have rebuilt in Turkey.