Generation of Syrians left with trauma and disabilities

Press Release | London, 17th December 2024, 17:00 GMT

Syria is facing one of the most serious humanitarian crises of our time.
More than 13 million Syrians are still displaced, either abroad or within their country.
90% of the population lives in poverty, according to the UN (HNO).
2.8 million people with disabilities face daily difficulties in accessing essential services, including healthcare and rehabilitation.
Nearly 30 per cent of Syrians aged 12 and above have disabilities, which is double the global average of 15 per cent.
One in ten people is living with a mild to moderate mental health condition, while 75 per cent of people with mental health conditions in Syria do not receive any treatment.
Prior to the most recent escalation, an estimated 14.41 million civilians in Syria were at risk from explosive ordnance, with contamination heavily impeding access to basic services, humanitarian aid and livelihood opportunities.
An increasing number of people are at risk of death and life-changing injuries due to the extensive contamination from explosive remnants in Syria

Syria has been devastated by 13 years of war. More than 400,000 people have been killed. The country's essential infrastructure has been ravaged. The bombing and shelling of major cities was systematic between 2014 and 2019. According to the UN, 16 million (out of a population of 23) need humanitarian assistance.

The recent developments have further exacerbated challenges in delivering aid, with increased barriers to humanitarian access due to security risks and logistical hurdles. It is vital to ensure unimpeded, timely, and safe access for humanitarian organisations to reach those most in need, including displaced persons, persons with disabilities, and children.

Humanity & Inclusion’s teams continue to operate across multiple governorates in Syria supporting the most vulnerable people, including those with injuries and disabilities.

“Following last weekend’s major developments in Syria, HI is calling for the end of violence and a commitment to long-term peace in the country. More than 400,000 people have been killed in the 13-year conflict, and more than 13 million Syrians have been forcibly displaced, either as refugees or within their own homeland. The conflict marked by continuous violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law had devastating ripple effects,”

says Danila Zizi, Country Director for Humanity & Inclusion's Syria Response.

“Syria is facing one of the most severe humanitarian crises of our time. The economy has collapsed, and a striking percentage of the population lives in poverty. Over 2.8 million persons with disabilities in Syria face daily challenges to access essential services including healthcare and rehabilitation. HI continues to support persons with disabilities and those injured by the conflict, while addressing the catastrophic impact of contamination by explosive remnants of war, which continues to pose severe risks to civilians,” adds Zizi.

“The risk of further escalation remains high. We call on all parties involved to end the violence in Syria and address the urgent humanitarian and stability needs of the population.”