UNHCR welcomes Syrian citizenship drive for Kurds
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Saturday welcomed ongoing efforts to implement a presidential decree granting Syrian citizenship to Kurds, describing the measure as an important step toward resolving decades of statelessness and legal uncertainty.
In a statement, the UNHCR said it supports the implementation of Presidential Decree No. 13 of 2026, which allows Syrian Kurds, including individuals previously unregistered in civil records, to apply for Syrian citizenship, SANA reported.
According to the agency, more than 10,500 people have submitted applications since the process began in April 2026. The Syrian government extended the application period in response to continued demand.
The agency added it is supporting awareness campaigns and assisting applicants through information and legal support programs, stressing that addressing statelessness is essential for strengthening social inclusion and community cohesion.
On May 22, the government announced they had received 2,892 family applications covering 10,516 individuals since the registration process opened on April 6. Applications are being processed through designated centers in Damascus, Aleppo, Hasakah, Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor.
Following the expiration of the initial one-month registration period, the Syria government extended the deadline by an additional 15 days at selected centers to accommodate remaining applicants.
The UNHCR described the decree as more than an administrative measure, saying it represents a significant step toward addressing the consequences of the 1962 Hasakah census, which left tens of thousands of Kurds without citizenship and restricted their access to education, healthcare, employment, and civil and political rights.
To support the process, the agency has produced informational materials in Arabic and Kurdish explaining application procedures, while legal partners are providing guidance and assistance at registration centers.
Syrian Interior Minister Anas Khattab said the ministry continues to implement the decree issued by President Ahmad al-Sharaa as part of broader efforts to address civil and legal status issues, promote equal citizenship, and strengthen social stability.
“Addressing statelessness is critical to strengthening protection, fostering inclusion and promoting social cohesion,” said Aseer al-Madaien, acting UNHCR representative in Syria, adding that UNHCR will continue working with Syrian authorities and partners to help affected communities obtain documentation and access their rights.