Pilot Programs Point Way to Rights-Respecting Models

(Beirut) – Syrian refugees who returned to Syria between 2017 and 2021 from Lebanon and Jordan faced grave human rights abuses and persecution at the hands of the Syrian government and affiliated militias, Human Rights Watch said in a report released today. Returnees also struggled to survive and meet their basic needs in a country decimated by conflict. The 72-page report “‘Our Lives Are Like Death’: Syrian Refugee Returns from Lebanon and Jordan,” found that Syria is not safe for return. Among 65 returnees or family members interviewed, Human Rights Watch documented 21 cases of arrest and arbitrary detention, 13 cases of torture, 3 kidnappings, 5 extrajudicial killings, 17 enforced disappearances, and 1 case of alleged sexual violence.

When it comes to human rights, the new German government faces enormous tasks. Our Human Rights Watch team has seven key points that the incoming government should tackle during its legislative period.

Rise in Poverty, Hunger Shows Need to Expand Social Protection

Burmese Artists Send Message to France, Global Community to Address Rights

Censorship; Surveillance; Prison or Barred Entry for Critics

Tackle Years-long Crisis in Harare

Effective Law Enforcement, Access to Shelter, Financial Support Are Critical