The Refugees and Displaced Persons Working Group of the Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) held an emergency meeting, attended by President Hadi Al-Bahra and group coordinator Ahmad Baccora, to discuss the latest developments in the situation of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and the challenges related to their return amidst the military escalation by the Israeli occupation.
Members of the Lebanon Network were also present at the meeting, providing an update on the current conditions facing Syrian refugees in Lebanon. They highlighted the difficulties refugees face due to the military escalation and discriminatory practices by Lebanese authorities, noting that more than 100,000 Syrian refugees have returned from Lebanon in recent weeks.
The attendees discussed the security and political challenges, while participants from Lebanon proposed the establishment of safe zones near the Lebanese-Syrian border, emphasizing the need to discuss this with the UNHCR. They also pointed out the clear discrimination in the treatment of Syrian refugees, particularly in terms of shelter and relief, as well as the Lebanese government’s inability to provide adequate support amid ongoing daily attacks and military operations.
Additionally, the attendees addressed the worsening humanitarian situation in Lebanon, noting the difficulty in accessing food, medicine, and shelter. This situation is exacerbated by a sharp decline in international aid allocated to Lebanon.
The Lebanon Network participants recommended forming a joint committee with Lebanese authorities to protect refugees who are unable to return to regime-controlled areas. They also called for exploring the possibility of facilitating transportation between Lebanon and northern Syria and emphasized the need to engage with international organizations to secure logistical and financial support for these trips. They urged international advocacy to focus on reducing discrimination against Syrian refugees and ensuring they receive the necessary support.
The attendees stressed the importance of enhancing cooperation and coordination by establishing a local network to link Syrian associations with the Lebanese General Security. This would help reduce discrimination against Syrian refugees. Additionally, they emphasized the need to conduct an accurate census of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, including their geographical distribution and original places of residence in Syria.
(Source: SOC’s Media Department)
