Palestinians in Syria are people of Palestinian origin, most of whom have been residing in Syria after they were expelled and displaced from their homeland in the 1948 Palestinian exodus. Palestinians hold most of the same rights as the Syrian population, barring citizenship rights.[2]
The initial influx of Palestinians was substantial (90,000-100,000) and the government through a series of laws, gradually paved the way for their integration into the Syrian socioeconomic structure while preserving their separate Palestinian identity.[3]
Palestinians in Syria have the right to own more than one business or commercial enterprise as well as the right to lease properties.[4] These rights extend to trade and commerce. Union membership in Syria is also open to Palestinians. Palestinians are free to travel throughout Syria and have the right to establish residence in Syrian villages and cities.[4] There is, however, a prominent gap in the home and land ownership laws. Unlike Syrian nationals, Palestinians should not own more than one home nor purchase arable land. Palestinian refugees in Syria do not have the right to vote or candidate for the People's Council or presidency.[4]