Quality of Life and Well-Being of Syrian Refugees: Insights from Spain and Jordan

Syrian refugees face numerous challenges, including conflict, displacement, family separation, human rights violations, limited access to basic needs, and exposure to violence and torture. These experiences significantly affect their physical, psychological, social, and environmental quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to assess the QoL of Syrian refugees in Spain and Jordan and to examine the association between sociodemographic characteristics, living conditions, and experiences of discrimination with different QoL domains. This study used a cross-sectional correlational design in Syrian refugee centers, homes, and camps across Spain and Jordan. A convenience sample of Syrian refugees with confirmed status in the past ten years was recruited. Demographic data were collected via a demographic form, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life—Brief Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) was used to assess their quality of life. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, one-way ANOVA, and independent t-tests. The two hundred participants were predominantly aged 18–29 (43%), female (52.5%), married (51.5%), with secondary school education (46.5%), and unemployed (70%), with low monthly family income (60.5%). While 69% experienced low levels of discrimination, 33% were satisfied with their health, and 47.5% rated their QoL as neutral. Refugees in Spain reported higher QoL across physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains compared to those in Jordan (p < 0.05). The QoL was related to socio-demographic factors: higher among married participants (p = 0.044), urban residents (p < 0.001), and recent immigrants (<5 years, p < 0.001), but lower among those with low income (p = 0.011). Gender differences showed that males had better physical (p = 0.001) and psychological (p = 0.032) QoL than females. Lower discrimination levels and employment were associated with higher QoL across multiple domains. This study highlights the lasting association of the Syrian conflict on refugees’ QoL, emphasizing the need for holistic healthcare that addresses physical, psychological, social, and environmental challenges both before and after displacement. Findings call for comprehensive support systems, including early mental health interventions, anti-discrimination efforts, and community inclusion programs, to enhance refugees’ resilience and integration. The study identifies specific subgroups at greater risk of lower QoL—including women, older adults, those with low income, the unemployed, camp residents, and those experiencing discrimination—providing actionable insights for policymakers to target resources and interventions effectively. Tailored rehabilitation and psychological care are essential for empowering refugees to rebuild their lives and fostering social cohesion in host communities.