HHI Humanitarian Update: Humanitarian Priorities in Syria After Assad's Fall

Following the fall of the Assad regime after 14 years of war, the humanitarian situation in Syria remains dire, with millions of people requiring urgent aid. Nearly 500,000 internally displaced persons have returned to northwest Syria, adding to the over 7.4 million people displaced during the conflict. International aid agencies are focusing on providing essential relief, including shelter, sanitation, health services, and winter supplies for displaced populations. The UN Migration Agency (IOM) has issued an appeal for $73.2 million to support over 1.1 million people through the winter months. Additionally, efforts are underway to restore vital infrastructure, such as water and electricity, which remain inoperable in many areas due to damage and ongoing hostilities.

Despite some progress, significant challenges persist, including health crises, as many medical facilities remain non-operational due to damage or lack of funding. Medical teams are facing shortages of staff and supplies, while disease outbreaks such as influenza-like illnesses are rising. Furthermore, international discussions continue, with foreign ministers and organizations seeking to coordinate assistance and address refugee return policies amid security concerns. International NGOs have increased their aid operations since restrictions were eased in early January, but the scale of needs remains overwhelming.

The next months will be crucial in mobilizing aid funding, establishing UN and NGO operational capacity and, most importantly, maintaining security and humanitarian access for Syrians emerging from over a decade of war.

Michael VanRooyen, MD, MPH 

Director, Harvard Humanitarian Initiative