Reconsidering ‘Home’: Aspirations and Intentions of Syrians in Belgium in the Context of Syrian Political Transition (May 2026)

Countries: Belgium, Syrian Arab Republic Source: International Organization for Migration Please refer to the attached file. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Commissioned by IOM Belgium and co-funded by the European Union (EU) and the Federal Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (Fedasil), this study examined the mobility intentions of Syrians in Belgium following the change in government in the Syrian Arab Republic (henceforth referred to as Syria) at the end of 2024. This mixed methods study was conducted from October to December 2025 and involved a total of 351 survey respondents and 20 in-depth interviewees. Most respondents are cautious about return: only 7 per cent intend to return to Syria within the coming year, while 38 per cent envision returning in the medium to long term, contingent on improved conditions in Syria. Among those considering returning in the medium to long term, 46 per cent plan to take a ‘wait and see’ approach, adjusting their plans in response to ongoing developments in Syria. A further 25 per cent envision their return in two to five years, and another 27 per cent beyond five years. Safety and security concerns emerged as one of the most decisive factors shaping return intentions. Lack of safety (46%) and instability (33%) were the principal deterrents cited by respondents, alongside community-specific and personal fears. Reconstruction of housing, resolution of housing and land issues, and restoration of essential services, such as health care, were also identified as key preconditions for sustainable reintegration. Individual characteristics influence overall return intentions. Year of arrival in Belgium emerged as a key factor, with 46 per cent of respondents who arrived before 2020 intending to return to Syria, compared to 27 per cent of those who arrived betw...

Original source: Relief Web