Syria participated in the Global Refugee Forum held in Geneva with a high-level delegation headed by Saad Baroud, Director of the Department of International Organizations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The participation came within the framework of ongoing diplomatic efforts to present Syria’s official vision for addressing one of the most complex humanitarian challenges facing the country.
Syria’s Vision for a Sustainable Solution
In the delegation’s official statement, Baroud outlined a vision centered on addressing the root causes of displacement. He stressed that a sustainable solution to the refugee crisis “begins within Syria,” through resolving internal displacement and securing the basic requirements for a dignified life for citizens. He also emphasized the humanitarian dimension, noting that Syrian refugees have represented “added value to host countries” by contributing positively to economic and social sectors.
Conditions for Return and Reform Measures
The statement identified the return of refugees as a process that must be safe, voluntary, dignified, and sustainable, and free from political exploitation. Baroud highlighted reforms and measures undertaken by the Syrian state following the fall of the Assad regime, aimed at creating conditions conducive to return. These steps were presented as part of broader efforts to reassure both the international community and Syrian refugees about the evolving internal situation.
Syria’s participation marked a notable moment with the presentation of what was described as the country’s first formal pledge on refugee issues. The delegation characterized this move as historic, affirming Syria’s commitment to intensifying efforts through diplomatic engagement and the use of good offices to address refugee concerns globally. It also reaffirmed readiness to cooperate constructively with the international community, UN agencies, and host countries.
Reconstruction and the Financial Challenge
The delegation underscored funding constraints as one of the most significant obstacles to refugee return. The statement emphasized that supporting reconstruction and development efforts is a fundamental prerequisite for achieving safe and sustainable return, stressing that humanitarian solutions cannot be separated from economic recovery.
Syria’s participation in the forum reflects an effort to reassert its role on the international stage and engage directly with global stakeholders on the future of millions of displaced Syrians. While challenges persist, the intervention emphasized an official position that durable solutions must be rooted inside Syria and supported by coordinated, depoliticized international cooperation.
