The Return of Syrian Refugees: Social and Economic Considerations

The Middle East Institute (MEI) is pleased to host a public release of the World Bank’s new report, “The Mobility of Displaced Syrians: An Economic and Social Analysis.” This report examines key factors behind the return of more than 100,000 Syrian refugees, and analyzes the various challenges and risks refugees must navigate as they consider a return home. What are the conditions enabling the return of Syrian refugees to Syria? How could the future returns differ from the returns that have taken place so far? Which policy options does the international community have to support Syrian refugees, their hosts, and Syrians in Syria? To present the report’s findings are World Bank Regional Director for the Mashreq Saroj Kumar Jha and lead author of the report and Senior Economist Harun Onder. Joining the discussion is U.S. Institute of Peace Senior Advisor Mona Yacoubian. MEI Senior Vice President Amb. Gerald Feierstein will moderate the discussion.