Following the recent downfall of longtime Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, the nation now faces significant humanitarian challenges and political transitions. With the regime change, more than 90 percent of the Syrian population is reported to rely on humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations. Amidst freezing winter conditions, aid organizations struggle to deliver assistance to those at risk.
The international community is ramping up efforts to respond to the immediate needs of the Syrian people, as the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the imminent arrival of 50 tons of EU-funded medical supplies intended to bolster the country’s beleaguered health system, particularly within Idlib and northern Aleppo. This shipment consists of emergency surgical kits, anesthesia materials, and medications intended to prevent outbreaks of diseases exacerbated by the cold weather.
Complementing this effort, Ukraine recently pledged to send 500 tons of wheat flour to Syria, aiming to support thousands of families suffering from food insecurity. President Volodymyr Zelensky's announcement highlights the urgent need for food assistance as nearly 13 million Syrians reportedly do not know how they will get their next meal.
Mathias Mogge, Secretary General of Welthungerhilfe, emphasizes the destruction caused by the civil war over the past 13 years, particularly noting the dire circumstances faced by residents returning from displacement. "People are freezing; there is little heating material," he remarks, illustrating the challenges of winter months. Many homes lack basic necessities, with reports of houses without windows or doors.
Despite the devastation, there is some optimism. Mogge points out the eagerness of many Syrians to return to their homeland and rebuild their lives. "We will see how we can support those who want to return," he says, reflecting the organization's commitment to facilitate community rebuilding.
Unfortunately, the security situation remains precarious as violence erupts between the newly formed Syrian transitional government, largely dominated by the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and loyalists of the former Assad regime. Recently, high-ranking military figures from Assad's government have been arrested, and conflicts continue to arise as the country grapples with its new identity.
Civil protests have erupted, particularly among Alawites and Shiite communities who are concerned about their safety under the new regime. An incident where footage of the attack on an Alawite shrine incited unrest exemplifies the fragile state of peace and the challenge of fostering national unity.
Internationally, Germany has reaffirmed its position as one of the primary supporters of humanitarian efforts, with the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development stating it has allocated €132 million to organizations and projects addressing the humanitarian crises faced by Syrians this year alone. This longstanding partnership has aimed to provide long-term support to sustain water supply systems, education, and healthcare access.
The humanitarian situation remains grim but not insurmountable, as more organizations strive to establish operations within Syria to facilitate the rebuilding process. Many NGOs, including Welthungerhilfe, are working to formally register and expand their initiatives, underlining the importance of international support.
There is hope for some semblance of political stability, though it is contingent upon creating inclusive governance principles. The transitional government, now headed de facto by HTS, must resolve demanding questions concerning justice and reconciliation, particularly over how to address individuals who committed crimes during the Assad regime.
On the ground, humanitarian workers continue to face deep-seated challenges as they deliver aid amid rising prices and limited employment opportunities. Mogge conveys the harsh economic realities: "600 grams of bread cost about one dollar, but many workers earn only around twenty-five dollars per month." The disparity between individual earnings and the skyrocketing costs of living does little to soothe the already strained populace.
Heating needs remain severe, fueled by widespread shortages, as reports suggest many households are left shivering through long winter nights without relief. Aid workers candidly acknowledge the overwhelming conditions and scarcity of resources rendering their mandates increasingly complex.
Looking forward, the international focus needs to remain steadfast on Syria’s humanitarian crisis. There exists the potential for rebuilding and recovery if the global community prioritizes collaboration and solidarity with the Syrian people. Without such commitment, the prospect of stability and recovery remains at risk. Assad may have departed, but the consequences of his regime continue to overshadow the fragile steps toward peace and reconciliation.
