NEW YORK, New York — After nearly 14 years of civil war, shifts in Syria’s ongoing conflict have brought both hope and uncertainty to millions of displaced Syrians. In Jordan’s Za’atari Refugee Camp—one of the largest in the Middle East—residents face complex decisions about whether to return home. Many still dream of rebuilding their country, but continued violence, economic instability and limited access to basic services make that choice difficult.
To better understand the challenges refugees face currently, The Borgen Project spoke with representatives from humanitarian organizations, including Noor Bimbashi of Humanity and Inclusion, Ameera Khamis of the Lutheran World Federation and Mohammad Al Awamreh of War Child. Their firsthand insights shed light on the realities inside Za’atari and the barriers that stand in the way of return.
Roots of the Syrian Refugee Crisis
The government of Bashar al-Assad, in power for decades, ruled Syria through widespread corruption and human rights violations. In 2011, protests erupted after a group of boys spray-painted “The people want the fall of the regime” on a school wall and were later arrested and tortured. Protests spread across the country as Syrians called for democratic reforms. The Assad government responded with force, triggering a civil war that has continued for years.
Throughout the conflict, international organizations and human rights groups have accused the regime of committing war crimes, including unlawful arrests, torture, forced disappearances and civilian killings. More than 300,000 civilian deaths have been reported. About 14 million Syrians—6.8 million refugees and 7.2 million internally displaced persons—have fled their homes.
Following Turkey and Lebanon, Jordan became one of the largest host countries for Syrian refugees. The Za’atari Refugee Camp opened in 2012 and rapidly grew to a population of 120,000. Currently, the camp remains home to around 80,000 people.
The Situation in Syria Currently
The situation in Syria remains volatile. Armed groups continue to fight for control in northern, southern and coastal regions. After the fall of the regime, Syrians took to the streets to celebrate, but an unstable government leaves the future of Syria uncertain. More than 1 million Syrians, both internally displaced and those living abroad, have returned since 2021. However, most returns remain voluntary and complex. For many in camps like the Za’atari Refugee Camp, the decision depends on conditions back home, access to services and security guarantees.
Barriers to Returning Home
“While the fall of the regime has ignited hope,” said Ameera Khamis of the Lutheran World Federation, “practical concerns continue to shape the atmosphere in Zaatari, making the future uncertain for many.” Long-term displacement has compounded the challenges refugees face. Economic hardship, gaps in health care, insecurity and damaged infrastructure all play a role.
Safety Concerns Across Syria
Fighting between armed groups continues to endanger civilians, especially in areas like Idlib and Daraa. Dozens of civilians have died in recent clashes and more than 24,000 people were displaced in early 2025. Unexploded ordnance and destroyed infrastructure remain significant threats. “Without access to proper medical care, refugees—particularly those with chronic illnesses, war-related injuries or disabilities—face severe risks,” said Noor Bimbashi of Humanity and Inclusion. Only 57% of Syria’s hospitals are fully operational. Recently, more than 100 health facilities in northwest Syria lost funding, reducing access to care for millions. Cuts have also affected services related to food, education and electricity.
Economic Hardship Prevents Return
“They need cash to return,” said Mohammad Al Awamreh of War Child. “They have no jobs [in Syria], no house, no opportunities or few opportunities … they have a concern of how they can start their life.” The Syrian economy has collapsed, and more than 90% of the population now lives below the poverty line—three times the rate before the war began. Most returning families lack access to income-generating opportunities, land or reliable shelter. These economic realities push many refugees to remain in camps or host countries for the foreseeable future.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
“Alongside these fears,” said Khamis, “many refugees feel hopeful about the prospect of reuniting with family and reestablishing their communities.” Some refugees believe they can contribute to rebuilding Syria and helping it transition toward peace and democracy. Others see the opportunity to restore community life after more than a decade of loss. As of February 2025, 80% of Syrian refugees hope to return home one day, according to UNHCR—an increase of 23% from the previous year.
Nonprofits continue to advocate for greater global attention to the Syrian crisis. “People can help by raising awareness and ensuring that the Syrian crisis remains part of the global conversation,” said Bimbashi. “Advocating for sustained humanitarian aid and ensuring that refugee returns remain voluntary, safe and dignified is essential.”
Organizations like the UNHCR, local NGOs and international humanitarian groups work to restore essential services and advocate for refugee rights. However, in the face of rising needs, funding cuts, rising food insecurity and limited medical care, their efforts require stronger global support. “The world must act now to prevent further suffering,” said Bimbashi “and ensure that Syrians have a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity.”
– Olivia Young
Olivia is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.
Photo: Flickr
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