EU Media Officer: Union does not oppose voluntary return of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, but legal procedures must be ensured

BEIRUT — The Syrian refugee crisis in Lebanon has intensified following crimes attributed to Syrian “gangs,” including the murder of Lebanese Forces official Pascal Suleiman in early April. This incident has sparked acts of violence against Syrian refugees and renewed calls for their deportation.

Luis Miguel Bueno, EU Regional Media Officer for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) based in Beirut, stated that the EU is reassured by the participation of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in the voluntary return process in Lebanon. He emphasized that while the EU does not oppose voluntary return, it is crucial to ensure that legal procedures are followed.

Lebanese Minister of Displacement Issam Sharaf al-Din announced that preparations are underway for the next batch of 2,500 Syrian refugees to leave Lebanon, affirming that the Lebanese government has reactivated the voluntary return program.

Sharaf al-Din noted that Lebanese security agencies are reviewing the lists of those wishing to return, with plans for additional batches to follow.