Context:
The civil war in Syria has displaced more than half of the population from their homes. More than seven million people have fled within the country and around six million have fled abroad. Around a third of all homes in Syria have been destroyed. With the end of the conflict, the first wave of displaced people are returning, but they frequently find their houses and apartments destroyed, occupied by others or redeveloped. This leads to social tensions and conflicts over use. Furthermore, the Syrian Government must address past violations of housing, land and property rights (HLP) and lay the foundation for rapid, inclusive and sustainable reconstruction.
Objective:
The housing, land and property rights of vulnerable groups are safeguarded through effective advisory and support structures and are expanded and protected at the national level through targeted legal reforms and due diligence obligations.
Approach:
The project focuses on the following areas: 1. It collaborates with the analysis and media portal The Syria Report, the non-governmental organisation Syrbanism and the relevant governorates. Together, they are establishing local structures to provide support with HLP issues. These structures advise people who are particularly vulnerable, offer guidance and refer them to the relevant authorities. They also assist with preparing claims for the return of property and compensation. 2. The project develops HLP due diligence standards and advises the private sector, for example, on how to apply them. The objective is to facilitate investment and reconstruction measures, minimise risks and protect the population. 3. The project supports the further development of laws and policy frameworks relating to HLP. This aims to prevent future human rights violations and create the conditions for safe return, inclusive reconstruction and long-term legal certainty.