Statement: DRC resumes aid in Syria

As (DRC) aid operations resume in Syria, the international community must not fail millions of Syrians in the region and in Europe. 

The situation in Syria remains highly fragile and unpredictable, with continued hostilities in several parts of the country and a complex political transition underway. For the aid community, the immediate priority is to ensure continuity of aid programmes and addressing the humanitarian crisis that has continued unabated for nearly 14 years. 

Since 2008, the Danish Refugee Council has maintained a continuous presence in Syria, delivering life-saving aid and long-term assistance to displaced and conflict-affected populations. After brief suspension of operations DRC is gradually resuming its relief efforts in Syria to support civilians in dire needs as a result of the protracted crisis and the last spikes of conflict in Syria and Lebanon. DRC is ready to scale-up its support to Syria’s recovery while upholding the rights of all vulnerable populations through emergency relief work. 

Beyond immediate humanitarian needs, donor governments must increase funding for and technical support to essential services and infrastructure to enable a sustainable recovery. Investments in education, healthcare, and livelihoods are critical to rebuilding communities. Syrians want peace and dignity, and the international community must not fail their aspirations for a brighter future.  

Amid a fragile peace, risks of renewed conflict, millions displaced, and a country in limbo, hosting countries in the region and Europe must not promote hasty policies on returns that do not uphold the fundamental right of refugees and asylum seekers in line with international obligations, or do not guarantee returns are safe, informed, dignified and voluntary.