Returning Syrian Refugees Encounter Abduction and Sexual Abuse, Says UN

GENEVA (Reuters) – Syrian refugees returning home after fleeing the war are encountering severe human rights violations, including torture and abduction. Women are particularly vulnerable, facing sexual harassment and violence, according to a report released by the U.N. human rights office on Tuesday.

Over 12 years into Syria’s conflict, there are still more than 5 million refugees in neighboring countries. Some host nations are increasing pressure for their return, with cases of individuals being forcibly deported back to Syria.

The report provides a distressing overview of the challenges faced by returnees, emphasizing the plight of women amid a rise in deportations from other nations. U.N. human rights spokesperson Elizabeth Throssell stated at a Geneva briefing, "There are reasonable grounds to believe that the overall conditions in Syria do not permit safe, dignified, and sustainable returns of Syrian refugees to their home country."

The 35-page document details violations that have been committed by various parties, including the government and affiliated groups, as well as rebel authorities and armed factions.

A spokesperson for the Syrian government did not provide a comment in response to the report.

Testimonies from women interviewed revealed instances of harassment and coercion, where they were pressured to provide sexual favors to security officials in exchange for essential civil documents. One woman from eastern Ghouta expressed, "Women are now forced to do all sorts of things to continue their lives. Particularly those without financial means often face sexual exploitation."

The report also emphasizes the risk of detention for returnees. Women who have been detained often experience stigma, with assumptions made about their experiences, even if they have not faced sexual abuse. "In some cases, they are even divorced by their husbands and disowned by their own families," the report noted.