London, December 9, 2024 – The Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) welcomes the significant political change in Syria following the recent end of Bashar Al-Assad's rule, a development that brings renewed hope for Palestinian refugees who have resided there since the Nakba and have endured immense suffering throughout the years of the Syrian crisis. 

Since 2011, Palestinian refugees in Syria (PRS) have been among the groups most affected by the crisis, with the conflict claiming the lives of at least 4,300 Palestinians and leaving thousands more detained or missing. Palestinian camps, once symbols of resilience, were devastated by violence, targeted attacks, economic hardship, and systemic corruption. Yet, despite these challenges, PRS and Syrians have stood together throughout the years, exemplifying unity and shared struggle.  \

PRC believes this pivotal moment offers a unique opportunity to ensure justice and dignity for Palestinian refugees in Syria. The cessation of military acts and the removal of corrupt systems pave the way for rebuilding destroyed infrastructure and ensuring access to essential civic services, which are fundamental to the legal and social rights of refugees. Stability and reconstruction must become priorities to enable the Palestinian refugee community to recover and thrive. 

PRC calls on Syria’s new authorities to commit to enforcing Law 260 of 1956, which grants Palestinians equal rights and duties to Syrians, except for the right to vote. Furthermore, it urges the development of legislative frameworks to strengthen the historical and fraternal ties between Syrians and Palestinians. 

As Syria enters this critical transitional phase, the PRC calls on the international community to take immediate and coordinated action to protect the rights of Palestinian refugees in Syria, rebuild their camps, and hold those responsible for their suffering accountable. The PRC also reiterates its call for the right of all Palestinian refugees to return to their homeland, which remains a cornerstone of justice and peace for the Palestinian people. 

PRC has consistently highlighted the plight of PRS at the Human Rights Council and other international platforms, raising awareness about the extensive violations they have faced. Through detailed reports, the PRC has documented the destruction of homes, forced displacement, and systematic denial of basic services, while persistently advocating for the protection of the civic infrastructure that refugees rely upon.