Lebanon’s Unwelcome: Syrian Refugees Face Tough Choices

 

A current wave of animosity is forcing Syrian refugees to risk returning to areas of Syria controlled by the opposition, even though they have been seeking safety in Lebanon for more than ten years. Lebanon, the country with the largest population of refugees, has had difficulty providing for them, particularly since the start of its economic crisis in 2019. The economy of Lebanon is under stress, and tensions between locals and Syrian refugees have risen as a result of this crisis. More raids and deportations have resulted from anti-Syrian violence, which includes the murder of a Lebanese official by a Syrian gang, making refugees feel insecure.

Hundreds of refugees have made the risky decision to travel through government-held territory and treacherous terrain in order to return to Syria via the routes used by smugglers. They are desperate despite the risks in Syria, as seen by the bribes, checkpoints, and continual fear of being arrested. Racism, pressure from the state, Lebanon's economic collapse, and insecurity are the reasons behind their return, although Syrian government forces regularly target the areas they return to.

The international community has not helped much, preferring to concentrate on disasters that have occurred recently. This creates a serious problem for which there are no obvious answers, as refugees are forced to weigh the risks of their war-torn country against the animosity in Lebanon. Immediate humanitarian assistance, diplomatic initiatives to lessen bloodshed in Syria, and pressure on Lebanon to protect refugees' rights are all necessary to address this situation. Coordinated international action is required, including the provision of humanitarian relief, diplomatic initiatives, and safe havens where refugees can start again. In order to secure human rights and future hope, the international community must acknowledge that resolving the Syrian refugee crisis is a shared responsibility. Long-term solutions must be pursued.