Khaberni - The UN High Commissioner for Refugees welcomed the increasing support provided by the Republic of Korea to Syrian refugees in Jordan, which contributes to enhancing efforts to assist refugees who wish to voluntarily return and support the resilience of those who remain in the kingdom.
The Commission stated in its statement on Thursday that the Korean contribution of 3 million US dollars for 2025 reflects a noticeable increase compared to previous years, embodying Korea's firm commitment to stand by Jordan, a country that hosts large numbers of refugees.
This contribution confirms Korea's growing commitment to support the regional plan for refugee response and enhance their ability to face crises. It is a coordinated framework that combines immediate humanitarian aid and long-term developmental support to those affected by the Syrian crisis, including refugees and host communities.
This contribution comes at a time when global funding dedicated to refugee situations is facing increasing pressure, making Korea's increased support a strong expression of solidarity with Jordan's ongoing efforts to host large numbers of refugees.
It noted that this contribution will support both Syrian refugees preparing for voluntary return to their country and those who will remain in Jordan at the current time. It will also enable the Commission to meet the needs of the most vulnerable groups, and provide protection and assistance commensurate with their diverse needs and changing circumstances.
This contribution, which extends for one year, will support activities within the framework of the regional plan for responding to refugees and enhancing their ability to face crises, and the Commission's voluntary return program, targeting more than 10,000 Syrian refugees across Jordan. The contribution will also help provide targeted support, including advice on return, legal aid, free bus transport, and cash assistance for voluntary return.
Although the situation remains volatile and refugees' intentions regarding return may change, reality confirms the urgent need for organized, adequately supported interventions that are consistent with international protection standards and contribute to sustainable return. While many refugees in Jordan consider returning as a possible option, many others plan to stay in Jordan for the current time.
According to the latest regional expanded survey on the perceptions and intentions of Syrian refugees regarding returning to Syria, only 22% of the participants in Jordan in June 2025 stated that they plan to return to their countries within the next twelve months.
In light of this, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees continues to prioritize providing humanitarian support for more than 488,000 registered refugees in Jordan, in line with the Jordanian government's commitment to supporting refugees.
The UNHCR representative, Maria Stavropoulou, said: "The increasing support from the Republic of Korea represents a valuable and timely contribution, enabling the Commission to respond to the changing needs of Syrian refugees in Jordan. Whether refugees are preparing for voluntary return or continuing their lives in Jordan, this solidarity initiative helps us to safeguard their protection and dignity."
In turn, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Bilwoo Kim, to Jordan, confirmed his country's ongoing commitment to supporting the Syrian people and the Jordanian government, saying: "The significant increase in Korea's contribution this year is a clear expression of its deep confidence in the commitment of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and its dedication and expertise," expressing his anticipation to help the needy through close cooperation with the Commission.
The Ambassador expressed hope that this enhanced contribution will serve as a lifeline to support the Syrian people, whether they intend to return to their homes or wish to remain in Jordan, confirming that it also reflects Korea's deep solidarity with Jordan, which has been generous in hosting a large number of Syrians.
