Syria

Syria remains one of the world’s most protracted and complex humanitarian emergencies, with the situation worsening due to continued violence, economic collapse, and mass displacement. As of June 2025, approximately two-thirds of the country’s population are in need of humanitarian assistance. The ongoing civil war, coupled with the recent influx of returnees, has severely strained Syria’s already fragile infrastructure and social services.

Food insecurity is widespread, with over 9.3 million Syrians facing hunger due to supply chain disruptions, inflation, and deteriorating agricultural production. The healthcare system is overwhelmed and unable to meet the needs of millions of displaced people, with many regions suffering from limited access to clean water and basic sanitation, heightening the risk of disease outbreaks.

Since late 2024, intensified regional tensions have caused over 400,000 Syrians—many of whom were living in neighboring Lebanon—to return to Syria, placing additional pressure on already scarce resources. The return of these vulnerable populations has exacerbated the strain on housing, healthcare, and public services, especially in areas already devastated by conflict.

From March through May 2025, sectarian violence in western Syria led to the deaths of more than 1,000 civilians, triggering mass displacements to neighboring governorates. Additionally, Israeli airstrikes on March 18, 2025, in the city of Daraa resulted in further civilian casualties and deepened the insecurity affecting the southern region. These developments have compounded the challenges facing humanitarian actors and local authorities.

Children have been particularly affected by the crisis. More than 7.5 million children require humanitarian assistance, with many exposed to psychosocial trauma, displacement, and the threat of unexploded ordnance. Protection risks, including gender-based violence and child labor, are on the rise, particularly among displaced families living in informal settlements.

Syria’s economy continues to deteriorate, with over 90% of the population now living below the poverty line. The collapse of livelihoods, combined with skyrocketing prices for food and fuel, has further marginalized already vulnerable communities and heightened dependency on humanitarian aid.

Sustained and coordinated international support is urgently needed to alleviate suffering and support pathways toward long-term recovery and stability.