Damascus, July 21 (SANA) The Syrian government says it is advancing its “Syria Without Camps” initiative through a coordinated plan aimed at ending displacement by restoring infrastructure, supporting voluntary returns and strengthening cooperation with international partners.
The initiative is overseen by a national committee established under Decree No. 59 of 2026, bringing together ministers, governors and relevant government bodies to coordinate implementation.Deputy Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management Ahmad Qaziz said the plan aims to phase out the use of tents during 2026 and achieve sustainable solutions for all displacement camps by 2027.
Authorities said cooperation with international financial institutions has expanded, with the World Bank approving funding for two new projects as part of a broader portfolio.
The government is also developing a national data platform and has established a financial committee to strengthen governance and oversight.
Discussions have also been held with the Islamic Development Bank on financing projects linked to poverty reduction and the initiative. Government a gencies have coordinated with UN organizations,including the UN Refugee Agency and the Food and Agriculture Organization(FAO), to align implementation mechanisms.
Mohammed Bathish, head of the UN Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, saidreliable data and measurable indicators are essential to support sustainable reintegration.
Officials identified the clearance of rubble, landmines and explosive remnants of war as a prerequisite for safe voluntary returns.
Around table in Geneva in late June, attended by governments and international organizations, highlighted the role of Syria’s National Mine Action Centre in leading these efforts. In meetings with UN’S
pecial Rapporteur Paula GaviriaBetancur, Syrian officials said damaged infrastructure, landmines and wardebris remain the main obstacles to return.
According to the government, the Special Rapporteur welcomed the existence of a national plan and implementation mechanism, while continuing field visits ahead of submitting her report to the United Nations.
The government is also building a national displacement data base alongside a comprehensive survey of camps. An assessment in Idlib recorded 736 camps hosting around 91,000 families.
Officials said 1,081 families have already returned, while another 1,150 have registered their intention to return, with transportation and logistical support continuing.
R.H/MZN
