c. Transparency and Access to Information Several applicants reported that publicly available information focused primarily on application requirements and supporting documentation, while later stages of the process remained unclear. Common questions concerned the expected timeframe for reviewing applications, the nature of personal interviews, decision-making procedures, and the steps required to obtain civil documentation following approval. In this context, Shiyar Jamal Ali stated: “We are waiting for the final interview, but we have no information about the type of questions that will be asked or when it will take place.” Participants also highlighted the limited availability of information regarding the implementation of the process, including the functioning of the committees responsible for reviewing applications and conducting interviews, the criteria guiding their work, and the expected timeline for subsequent stages. This lack of clarity contributed to uncertainty and anxiety among some applicants, particularly those residing abroad or those required to incur additional costs in order to pursue their applications. Some applicants also expressed concern that interview dates might be announced at short notice, without providing sufficient time for preparation, particularly for those residing outside their areas of origin or outside Syria. d. Variations in Implementation Across Registration Centres Registration centres experienced high demand during the initial weeks of the process, resulting in congestion and longer waiting times. While registration committees processed thousands of applications within a short period, the volume of applications highlighted the need for additional resources and capacity if the process continues or future registration rounds are introduced. Interviews and legal observations revealed variations in implementation across registration centres, including differences in the information provided to applicants and the interpretation of procedural requirements. Conflicting instructions were also reported regarding the presence of family members during registration, with some centres accepting the attendance of the head of household or a family representative, while others required all family members included in the application to be present. Participants reported that these inconsistencies persisted beyond the initial weeks of registration, sometimes even among staff within the same centre, creating confusion and uncertainty. Although these variations did not affect the substance of the process, they underscore the need for clear implementation guidelines and consistent instructions across registration centres. Such measures would help reduce discretionary interpretations and promote equal access to procedures. SYNERGY | contact@hevdesti.org | www.hevdesti.org Page 12 of 19