The conflict in Syria has now entered its thirteenth year, with ongoing systematic atrocities and immense suffering endured by civilians. The United Nations estimates that 16.7 million people, which is 70% of the total population, will require humanitarian assistance in 2024. Additionally, roughly half of the pre-war population remains displaced either within Syria or in neighboring countries. The situation has been further exacerbated by a series of earthquakes that struck the country’s north in February last year, resulting in nearly 5,900 deaths, significant infrastructure damage, and heightened vulnerabilities for millions already struggling to meet their basic needs.
Amidst this dire humanitarian crisis, funding for aid efforts has dropped to an all-time low. In 2023, only $2.02 billion, or 37.4% of the required $5.41 billion for UN-led humanitarian operations, was received. Secretary-General António Guterres has called on all stakeholders to take necessary action to achieve a genuine and credible political solution to the conflict. This solution should align with the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people, restore the country’s sovereignty, unity, independence, and territorial integrity in accordance with Security Council resolution 2254 (2015), and create conditions for the voluntary return of refugees in safety and dignity.
Guterres emphasized the urgent need for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in Syria. He also stressed the importance of a strategic approach to countering terrorism in compliance with international law, ensuring sustained and unhindered humanitarian access throughout the country, and providing urgent and adequate funding to sustain critical aid operations. The UN chief highlighted that key parties involved in the conflict must step up to meet these critical needs, as an entire generation of Syrians has already paid a high price for the ongoing crisis.
The Secretary-General also addressed the issue of impunity in Syria, noting that arbitrary detention, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, sexual and gender-based violence, torture, and other violations continue to obstruct sustainable peace in the country. Guterres emphasized the collective responsibility to end impunity and provide justice for the hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of Syrian victims, survivors, and their families who have been affected by these grave violations. As the conflict in Syria continues to devastate communities and cause immense suffering, the international community must prioritize efforts to bring about a lasting political solution, protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and hold perpetrators of atrocities accountable for their actions.
