Supporting Returnees and Host Communities

Many internally displaced people (IDPs), returnees and host communities in northern Syria (Qamishli, Al-Hasakah and Afrin) continue to face major challenges. These include uncertain prospects for return, limited livelihood opportunities, damaged infrastructure, inadequate access to water, energy, healthcare and income, as well as growing social tensions after more than 13 years of conflict and the impacts of climate change.

The project focuses on facilitating safe return processes, providing practical support to returnees and host communities, strengthening social cohesion, and developing pilot approaches that can later be expanded to other regions of Syria.

The project includes the following activities:

• Establishing Welcome Desks in Al-Hasakah and Qamishli to provide information and counselling for returnees and internally displaced people, including support with reintegration, employment opportunities and access to local services.
• Providing counselling and financial assistance to families from Afrin who wish to return to their communities of origin.
• Implementing a Model Village approach to strengthen one community through improved food security, access to water, sustainable energy solutions, healthcare services and livelihood opportunities.
• Organising workshops and training courses on topics such as sustainable agriculture, water conservation, health, emergency preparedness, information technology, sewing and small business development.

Overall, the project will improve living conditions for around 2,300 returnees and residents in the region.