Asks Quote by Bashar al-Assad
“When you talk about humanitarian, it doesn't only mean to offer the people the help, the food, their necessary needs for their life. The first thing, if you ask the Syrian refugees, for example, the first thing they want is to go back to their country.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on Syrian Refugee Needs, 2020
Humanitarian aid must address deeper desires for home and dignity, not just material assistance.
In simple terms: Aid should include the refugees' wish to return home.
Provide support that respects refugees' aspirations.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- refugee resettlement
- policy planning
- NGO program design
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can aid programs incorporate refugees' desire to return?
- What policies help balance immediate relief with long‑term repatriation?
Material aid alone cannot satisfy the longing for home.