Skills profiling of Syrian returnees

This report presents key findings from the Skills Profiling for Syrian Returnees project, implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in partnership with UNHCR. Based on 5,335 survey responses collected across four Syrian governorates, the assessment examines returnees’ skills, employment histories, and training needs to support their economic reintegration. Despite substantial prior work experience—often gained abroad—over 80 per cent of respondents were unemployed at the time of the survey, with limited access to training, formal employment, or social protection.

The findings reveal critical gaps in technical qualifications, digital and foundational skills, and entrepreneurship training. Participation in TVET remains low, and access to nationally recognised certification is limited. Gender disparities persist, with women more engaged in training but less represented in formal employment. Significant geographic differences highlight the need for localised interventions. The report calls for scalable, inclusive, and market-driven training programmes aligned with sectoral demand to enhance employability and resilience.