More than 1,100 Syrian children have departed Cyprus since December 2024 through voluntary repatriation programmes, according to official data released Friday.
Specifically, until 28 August 2025, 1,127 minors aged 4 to 18 years are included in departure lists, from a total of approximately 4,100 Syrian citizens who have chosen to return to their country of origin.
Children aged 4-18 among 4,100 Syrians returning home
The minors represent over a quarter of all Syrians participating in the voluntary repatriation scheme operated by Cyprus authorities. The programme facilitates organised return to Syria for those choosing to leave Cyprus voluntarily.
Official figures show the repatriation initiative has gained momentum since its expansion in late 2024, with Syrian families increasingly opting to return to their homeland as security conditions have evolved.
Cyprus has maintained that all departures occur on a strictly voluntary basis, with participants receiving assistance for their journey back to Syria through coordinated government programmes.
9,000 third-country nationals depart Cyprus in 2025
According to the same data, from January to the end of August 2025, approximately 9,000 third-country nationals have departed Cyprus through identical programmes.
Read more: