NRC warns millions of Syrians lack identity, property documents
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Millions of Syrians remain trapped in legal uncertainty due to missing identity and property documents, limiting their access to basic services, housing, and legal rights, the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) said on Tuesday.
In a press release, the NRC, which surveyed 1,200 households across nine Syrian governorates, found that 62 percent of families have incomplete civil documentation for at least one family member, a situation that humanitarian organizations warn could leave millions without proof of identity.
The findings indicate that the problem is even more severe among families who have returned to their areas since Syria’s political transition in late 2024. Years of displacement, damage to civil registry systems, and repeated administrative disruptions were identified as key factors behind the documentation gap.
“The chronic lack of civil documentation among millions of Syrians creates a ripple effect in every aspect of their lives,” said Federico Jachetti, NRC’s country director in Syria.
“Without proof of identity or ownership, people cannot prove who they or their children are, or what they own, making it harder to access medical care or school. This is not just about bureaucratic challenges, but also about being able to access basic rights,” he added.
The NRC highlighted widespread insecurity surrounding housing and property rights. According to the release, 61 percent of families who own or rent property lack formal documentation proving their housing rights, exposing them to disputes and possible eviction.
Women were found to be disproportionately affected, with 70 percent reporting a lack of housing-related documentation, compared to the overall average.
NRC said the absence of legal records has become a major obstacle for Syrians seeking to rebuild their lives after more than a decade of conflict and displacement.
The organization noted that access to legal assistance remains limited due to high costs, procedural complexity, and uneven availability of services across the country.
To address the issue, the report recommends simplifying civil documentation procedures, standardizing administrative requirements, and reducing legal fees associated with obtaining official documents.
The NRC also urged international donors to increase funding for justice and legal assistance programs in Syria, particularly those aimed at resolving documentation and property disputes.
The organization called for greater support for women, internally displaced people, persons with disabilities, and families of missing persons, warning that unresolved legal status and ownership claims could hinder recovery efforts and long-term stability.
More than a decade of conflict in Syria has resulted in large-scale displacement, destruction of public records, and complex property disputes. Humanitarian organizations have repeatedly warned that restoring civil documentation and housing rights will be critical to facilitating safe returns and supporting post-conflict recovery across the country.