Syria's Path to Recovery: Stability, Investment, and Economic Revitalization
“The cost of inaction [...] is much more expensive than responding to the immediate needs of the Syrian people,” Mr. Adam Abdelmoula.
Earlier this week, Adam Abdelmoula, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Syria, attended a pivotal donor conference in Brussels organized by the European Union. At the gathering, he urged the international community to take swift action in supporting Syria's stabilization and recovery. The key priorities outlined include increased investment in aid, comprehensive recovery efforts, sanctions relief, and expanded access to global markets.
Upon his return to Damascus, he addressed the press today, stressing the need for immediate action to ensure the country’s prosperity and long-term peace.
16.5 million in need amid continuing conflict
Briefing journalists in New York a day earlier, Adam Abdelmoula explained that the country remains at a critical juncture as the situation continues to worsen. The presence of landmines and explosive remnants of war continues to pose a deadly threat, with over 600 casualties reported since December – a third of whom were children.
Efforts towards stability
Despite the grim circumstances, there has been some movement toward stability. Since December, 1.2 million people have returned to their homes, including 885,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) and 302,000 refugees. Much more is needed, and Mr. Abdelmoula underscored the urgent need for investments in recovery and reintegration efforts. Key obstacles include lack of basic services, security risks and missing legal documentation.
Ongoing hostilities
Despite progress, active hostilities continue in northern, southern and coastal Syria, displacing thousands and creating difficulties for recovery efforts. The recent escalation in coastal areas has resulted in hundreds of casualties and significant damage to infrastructure, including health facilities. “To prevent further suffering, all parties must commit to de-escalation and abide by international law,” said Mr. Abdelmoula, stressing that immediate, unimpeded humanitarian access is crucial to deliver aid.
Funding and economic challenges
The situation is further complicated by severe economic challenges, including cash shortages, limited electricity and rising prices, which hamper recovery efforts and access to basic services. “The freeze of funding in January has severely impacted operations, especially in northeast Syria, particularly in informal settlements and IDP camps,” Mr. Abdelmoula explained. The UN and its partners are adapting by scaling up operations to address the growing needs of the population.
The path to recovery
For Syria's long-term stability, economic revitalization and inclusive recovery efforts are crucial.
The UN has developed a transitional action plan aimed at reducing poverty, supporting refugee reintegration and strengthening institutions. However, international support is needed to ensure the success of these efforts.
“The cost of inaction [...] is much more expensive than responding to the immediate needs of the Syrian people,” Mr. Abdelmoula concluded.
This is an edited version of an article first published by UN News. Read more content on coordination results from the UN in Syria.
