For Syrian families returning home after years in Lebanon, crossing the Joussieh Border Crossing Point (BCP) is more than a journey, it’s a step toward rebuilding their lives. These returns are facilitated by humanitarian teams who coordinate movements to ensure their safety and order. Behind the scenes, the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) carefully plans and supports these operations in one of Syria’s most complex environments
These efforts have in turn been enabled by funding from the Australian government, which is strengthening UNDSS security capacity in both Syria and Lebanon, allowing humanitarian staff to work with confidence even in high-risk areas. It has enabled UNDSS to deploy international security coordination officers to key locations, including Latakia and Deir Ezzor, and to support border points such as Joussieh. The funding has also allowed UNDSS to deploy dedicated gender and inclusion expertise to ensure that operations consider the needs of women and other vulnerable returnees.
Joussieh, in Al Qusayr district near Homs, is the only fully functioning northern crossing between Syria and Lebanon. Other major BCPs remain closed due to damage from airstrikes and harsh weather. UNHCR reports that around 2,000 families cross Joussieh daily, with many now returning to Raqqa and Al-Hasakah in northeast Syria. Despite the challenges, operations remain organized, with UNHCR providing infrastructural upgrades and transport stipends for the returnees
“The security environment around Joussieh is highly dynamic,” said Teddy Noel-Hill, UNDSS Programme Management Officer based in Damascus. “Airstrikes, explosive remnants of war, and the presence of illicit cross-border networks mean every movement requires careful planning. Our role is to keep staff and civilians safe while enabling humanitarian access.”
UNDSS support includes security assessments, real-time monitoring, threat advisories, coordination with local authorities, armored vehicles, and on-the-ground accompaniment for humanitarian teams. Noel-Hill added, “By constantly assessing risks and options, we make it possible for agencies to operate even in difficult conditions.”
A UNHCR colleague remarked, “UNDSS consistently find safe ways to deliver assistance. Their approach is thorough, consultative, and decisive—exactly what’s needed here.”
Since December 2024, UNHCR reports 1.3 million refugees and 1.9 million internally displaced persons have returned to Syria. About 25% of all returns were to the central region, including Homs and Hama. As roughly more families prepare to return from northeast Syria, UNDSS support will remain crucial. Thanks to Australian funding, UNDSS can respond quickly to changing events and ensure humanitarian personnel and civilians stay protected.