Housing, Land and Property Rights: a main determinant for Syrian Potential Returnees
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Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy and International Affairs (IFI)
Abstract
The Assad Regime Anti-Normalisation Act of 2023 was decisively approved by a substantial majority in the U.S. House of Representatives, with 389 votes in favor and 32 against. The primary objective of this act is to prolong and broaden sanctions against Syria until 2032. This legislative measure underscores bipartisan consensus on the imperative to isolate Bashar al-Assad's administration and addresses critical issues such as aid misdirection and violations of Housing, Land, and Property (HLP) rights. These HLP transgressions pose significant barriers for Syrian refugees and internally displaced individuals seeking to repatriate. The bill now awaits the endorsement of the Senate and the President to be enacted as law.
Description
The Assad Regime Anti-Normalisation Act of 2023, sanctioned by the U.S. House of Representatives, extends the sanctions outlined in the Caesar Act on Syria until December 31, 2032. With substantial bipartisan backing, this legislation aims to impede any attempts at normalizing relations with Bashar al-Assad's administration. It also addresses pressing concerns such as the diversion of aid and violations of Housing, Land, and Property (HLP) rights. HLP rights violations encompass property confiscations, laws obstructing property restitution, and coercive tactics by security forces, which severely impede the repatriation of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The Syrian government's emphasis on real estate laws not only facilitates demographic manipulation but also bolsters support for regime loyalists. Until a political resolution is reached, numerous Syrians encounter formidable obstacles hindering their return to their homeland.
Keywords
Syrian Conflict, Real Estate legislation, HLP Rights, Land and Property Rights