Humanitarian need surges in Syria as regime change leads to escalation in displacement, warns World Vision

AMMAN (December 9, 2024) – Global Christian humanitarian organization World Vision is responding to a surge in displacement and humanitarian needs in Syria following the end of President Bashar al-Assad’s 24-year rule.

The escalation of hostilities that began November 28 has impacted civilians, infrastructure, and humanitarian access and operations in a region already distressed by prolonged conflict, displacement and socioeconomic collapse. According to U.N. reports, 1 million people have been newly displaced within the country, including 155,000 people experiencing displacement for at least the second time. The rapid escalation has left families without vital support as some humanitarian operations have been forced to a temporary halt. Many families are now sheltering in overcrowded camps, with limited resources and worsening conditions.

“The overall situation has hampered the availability and accessibility of basic services. Critical services such as access to food, clean water and sanitation are under pressure. Children in particular are impacted,” said Emmanuel Isch, World Vision’s response director in Syria.

“There is a risk of waterborne diseases resulting from poor sanitation. Funding shortfalls are challenging efforts to restore clean water in cities, including Aleppo. Funding is also needed to support women and girl survivors of sexual violence and to protect children and help them face the violence they have experienced.”

This latest surge in need follows 14 years of conflict and annual funding shortages. Currently, 16.7 million people in the country — nearly 7 in 10 — need humanitarian assistance, the largest number since the armed conflict began in 2011.

Food scarcity is a growing concern, with bakeries and markets struggling to operate. Public services and critical facilities including hospitals, power stations, and water supplies have been disrupted, with some facilities no longer functioning due to a shortage of supplies and staff.

Healthcare access has been severely disrupted as health facilities including main hospitals have been damaged or closed. Those that remain open are under immense strain, with many offering only emergency care. In addition, the combination of conflict, displacement and service disruption has placed immense psychological pressure on the affected population, especially children. Nearly 200 schools have been repurposed as shelters, impeding education for nearly 185,000 students.

World Vision staff are assessing the evolving needs and planning to scale up humanitarian operations by collaborating with local partners to reach those most affected.

About World Vision:
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. For more information, visit worldvision.org or follow on X, formerly known as Twitter, @WorldVisionUSA.