𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻. 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘆𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻-𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗛𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹

Executive summary

As Syria transitions from the previous Whole of Syria coordination model to a structure at the national level, ensuring inclusive and representative coordination arrangements has become a key priority. This requires the meaningful engagement of returning diaspora, national NGOs, and local actors in contributing to shaping coordination practices and humanitarian standards. While the transition aims to improve the coherence and efficiency of coordination, it must also guarantee the effective and inclusive participation of the diverse range of Syrian civil society actors. Ensuring that these actors can contribute to decision-making processes is essential to strengthening the legitimacy, accountability, and effectiveness of humanitarian coordination in Syria.
This policy brief draws on findings from the Bridging Voices: Strengthening Inclusive Coordination and Civil Society Cohesion in Syria (B-Voices) initiative, implemented by Diaspora Emergency Action & Coordination (DEMAC), the Syria NGO Alliance (SNA), and the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) in Syria. It examines opportunities and challenges for inclusive coordination within the evolving humanitarian architecture from the perspective of Syrian civil society actors and presents recommendations to strengthen the participation of Syrian civil society actors. By highlighting the perspectives and experiences of diaspora, national, and local organizations, the brief seeks to inform efforts to build a more inclusive, locally driven, and accountable coordination system.