Türkiye facilitates voluntary return of over 52,000 Syrians in December 2024

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced Thursday that 52,622 Syrians have voluntarily, safely, and honorably returned to their country within December 2024.

The announcement was made at the Cilvegozu Border Gate in Hatay’s Reyhanli district.

Why it matters

This large-scale return marks a significant step in Türkiye’s efforts to facilitate the voluntary repatriation of Syrian refugees. The process has been conducted under international law, with oversight from United Nations representatives, ensuring the returns are documented and humane.

Details

• Current refugee numbers
  • Türkiye currently hosts 2.88 million Syrians, according to Minister Yerlikaya.
  • Since 2017, 792,625 Syrians have returned to their homeland.
• Increase in returns
  • Before December 8, monthly returns averaged 11,066 Syrians.
  • However, in the past month alone, 52,622 Syrians returned, with 41,000 of them being families and the rest individuals.

• Preparatory measures
  • Türkiye has collaborated with humanitarian organizations to facilitate these returns.
  • AFAD (Türkiye’s Disaster and Emergency Management Authority) has dispatched 1,958 trucks of humanitarian aid in the last 40 days to ensure returning families find essential support in Syria.
• ‘Pioneer migrants‘ program
  • A new initiative, named “Pioneer Migrants,” allows family heads to visit Syria for six months to assess living conditions and address any shortages before relocating their entire families.

Statements from Minister Yerlikaya

For 13 years, we never closed our doors to those seeking refuge. We have always stood on the right side of history, extending a helping hand to those in need.

This honorable return is carried out in compliance with international law and with the presence of U.N. representatives, ensuring the process is transparent and lawful.

We are committed to ensuring a secure and stable environment in Syria, and we are showing the world the importance of voluntary and dignified returns.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya

Broader context

Türkiye has been a leading host for Syrian refugees since the conflict began in 2011.

These voluntary returns reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to balance domestic challenges with international responsibilities while calling for lasting stability in Syria.

Zoom out

As Türkiye facilitates large-scale returns of refugees, the focus remains on international cooperation to stabilize Syria and ensure sustainable resettlement.