DAMASCUS, SYRIA (HRNW) — Human Rights Watch is calling for stronger human-rights protections in Syria’s reconstruction process, warning that major rebuilding projects could affect housing, land and property rights if communities are not properly consulted.

In a report published September 27, Human Rights Watch said the Syrian transitional government has been signing reconstruction agreements while the legal framework governing those projects remains incomplete.

The organization said billions of dollars in international aid, financing and investment commitments are being directed toward Syria’s recovery.

Human Rights Watch said current rules do not adequately require authorities and developers to consult communities affected by reconstruction projects.

The organization also raised concerns about compensation for people whose homes or land may be affected by redevelopment.

It called for independent mechanisms that allow residents to challenge decisions concerning their homes, property and communities.

Human Rights Watch said millions of Syrians have returned to areas affected by years of conflict, while many communities still lack reliable water, electricity, healthcare and other basic services.

The organization cited research conducted in Syria in May 2026, including interviews with residents who had returned from displacement camps.

It said housing, land and property claims dating from the Assad era remain unresolved in many areas.

The organization also raised concerns over reconstruction projects involving neighborhoods affected by earlier laws and development schemes.

Human Rights Watch said meaningful participation by affected communities should take place before reconstruction projects are approved or presented to investors.

It also called for fair compensation and accessible grievance mechanisms for residents whose property rights may be affected.

International donors and investors are being urged by the organization to make human-rights safeguards part of reconstruction financing.

Human Rights Watch said businesses involved in reconstruction should conduct human-rights due diligence before entering agreements.

The organization also called for restoration of essential public services in areas where displaced Syrians are returning.

It said the legal frameworks being developed now will have long-term consequences for housing, property ownership and the rights of communities involved in Syria’s reconstruction.

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Disclaimer

This article is based on Human Rights Watch’s September 27, 2026 report on Syria’s reconstruction framework. Legal and human-rights assessments are attributed to Human Rights Watch and do not constitute independent HRNW conclusions.