Multiple domestic and international stakeholders, driven by varying interests, have complicated the conflict's resolution. It has evolved into a proxy war, with regional and global powers supporting opposing factions. Sectarian divisions, geographic complexities, and a lack of a unified opposition have prevented any decisive military outcomes. The substantial humanitarian crisis generated international attention for a short time, but hasn't resulted in any kind of comprehensive solution.

The crisis has deeply impacted Syrians, both inside and outside the country. Millions face unemployment, poverty, and daily struggles for survival. Access to essentials like food, clean water, health care, and education is limited, and medical infrastructure has been systematically targeted. International sanctions, on the one hand, and Bashar al-Assad’s internal policies, on the other, have both conspired to curtail the amount of aid that might have otherwise been made available to the Syrian people. Meanwhile, policies in Turkey, Lebanon, and Iraq make it difficult for refugees to find work or housing, which creates suffering in those communities and limits any support sent back into Syria from the diaspora. With 90% of the population experiencing poverty, many communities will continue to provide on-ramps to extremism and violence in the absence of real economic solutions.

In early 2023, a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck northern Syria. This seismic event has compounded the already dire humanitarian situation in the region. Northern Syria had already been grappling with the aftermath of more than a decade of civil war, which had left infrastructure in ruins, buildings destroyed, and residents facing challenging conditions. Aid organizations, already stretched beyond capacity before the earthquake, now face even greater challenges in helping those affected make recover and rebuild.

Needs have shifted. The sensational headlines of chemical attacks and ISIS takeovers have given way to widespread poverty and humanitarian needs that are arguably worse than anything seen at the peak of the international community’s interest in the conflict. Urgent needs still include food, water, shelter, medical care, and education. Your support helps HUMANITE continue our impact among displaced Syrians, shattered communities, and those looking for a way through to peace on the other side.

As international news coverage has shifted, international donations have fallen across the board. But donations are instrumental in helping displaced Syrians rebuild their lives. Your monthly membership or one-time donation helps job creation, rebuilding efforts, essential aid, and community development, so our Syrian friends and neighbours can build the more secure future.