This study discusses the issue of the people of Deir Ezzor governorate returning from displacement camps in areas of the Autonomous Administration control, residents of the Administration’s controlled countryside, who are suffering partially or entirely from the problem of the loss of identification documents. This group suffers from neglect and general problems due to displacement. But what makes them suffer even worse is the harsh living conditions in the camps located in the Autonomous Administration’s areas. That has been reflected in the loss of identity documents problem, where large numbers of displaced people lost their identity documents in the camps. Additionally, the loss of identity documents causes daily life consequences in mobility within an area suffering security tensions and witnessing the continuous activity of ISIS cells.
The study tries to diagnose the problem of identification documents loss among IDPs from Deir Ezzor. Also, the study attempted to measure the problem’s magnitude and effects through 30 interviews, 10 of which were devoted to the host community representatives (dignitaries, local councils, and civil society). Besides, 20 interviews were conducted with returnees and two round-table sessions attended by returnees, civil society representatives, and the Autonomous Administration.
The study found that the returnees who lost their identity documents represent a marginalized group in terms of pursuing and advocating for their cause, particularly by civil society organizations. Because of the loss of identification documents, they also live with complex problems, including daily life problems and long-term issues.
The study proposes suggestions in the form of recommendations to international organizations. If those recommendations were considered, sustainable solutions could be provided to the issue. The recommendations to civil society organizations in the region could contribute to mitigating the effects of the loss of identity documents problem on the returnees’ daily lives.
Read more: Returnees Without Identity
