After over a decade of conflict, Syria remains the world’s largest refugee crisis. Since 2011, more than 14 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety. More than 7.2 million Syrians remain internally displaced, with 70 percent of the population in need of humanitarian assistance and 90 percent living below the poverty line. Approximately 5.5 million Syrian refugees live in five neighboring countries—Türkiye, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt. Germany is the largest non-neighboring host country with more than 850,000 Syrian refugees.

Here’s What You Need to Know:

1. When did the Syrian refugee crisis begin?
2. How are the Türkiye-Syria Earthquakes impacting Syrians?
3. Where do Syrian refugees live? Do all Syrian refugees live in refugee camps?
4. What are Syrians’ greatest challenges?
5. How are Syrian children impacted by this crisis?
6. What is the UN Refugee Agency doing to help Syrians?

When Did the Syrian Refugee Crisis Begin?

The Syrian refugee crisis began in March 2011 following a violent government crackdown on public demonstrations supporting teenagers arrested for anti-government graffiti in Daraa. These events escalated into widespread protests and a brutal civil war. Over the past thirteen years, the conflict has forced millions of Syrians to flee their homes, with more than 16.7 million people now in need of humanitarian assistance.

How are the Türkiye-Syria Earthquakes Impacting Syrians?

On February 6, 2023, two powerful earthquakes struck southeastern Türkiye and northern Syria, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation. The earthquakes caused widespread destruction, claimed thousands of lives, and displaced tens of thousands more. In Syria, the earthquakes impacted 8.8 million people, with 60,000 fatalities and many more injured. Over 40,000 people remain displaced and live in temporary reception centers in northwest Syria.

Where Do Syrian Refugees Live? Do All Syrian Refugees Live in Refugee Camps?

Syrian refugees have sought asylum in over 130 countries, but the majority reside in neighboring countries. Türkiye hosts the largest population of Syrian refugees at 3.3 million. Most refugees live in urban and rural settings, not in refugee camps. Only about 5% of Syrian refugees live in camps, while the remaining 92% live in host communities, often in conditions of poverty and limited access to services.

What Are Syrians’ Greatest Challenges?

The challenges facing Syrians are immense. The prolonged conflict, economic downturn, and recent earthquakes have compounded their hardships. Key challenges include:

• Poverty and Unemployment: Over 90% of the population in Syria lives below the poverty line, with widespread food insecurity affecting 12.9 million people.
• Lack of Basic Services: Many refugees and displaced persons lack access to clean water, electricity, food, and medical care.
• Protection Risks: Economic instability and displacement expose Syrians to risks like child labor, gender-based violence, and early marriage.

How Are Syrian Children Impacted by This Crisis?

Syrian children have borne the brunt of the conflict and displacement. Over 47% of Syrian refugees are under 18, and more than a third of them do not have access to education. In Syria, 2.4 million children are out of school, with another 1.6 million at risk of dropping out. Many children suffer from trauma, malnutrition, and lack of healthcare, significantly impacting their development and future prospects.

What is the UN Refugee Agency Doing to Help Syrians?

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has been instrumental in providing life-saving aid to Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons. Key efforts include:

• Shelter and Supplies: Providing emergency shelter, clean water, food, and medical care to displaced families.
• Infrastructure Repair: Supporting the repair of homes, schools, and community centers.
• Educational Support: Facilitating access to education and psychosocial support for children.
• Earthquake Response: Delivering protection assistance, shelter support, and cash aid to those affected by the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes.

Humanity Increased’s Role and Efforts

Humanity Increased is dedicated to alleviating the suffering of Syrian refugees in neighboring countries but does not operate within Syria itself. Our efforts include:

• Emergency Shelter and Housing: Providing shelter kits and materials to help displaced families rebuild.
• Clean Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to safe drinking water and sanitation to prevent disease outbreaks.
• Food Security: Offering food aid and nutritional support to combat malnutrition, especially among children.
• Health and Medical Services: Delivering medical care, vaccinations, and mental health support.
• Education and Skills Development: Supporting education for children and offering skills training for adults.

How You Can Help

The humanitarian needs of Syrian refugees are immense. Contributions to Humanity Increased can make a significant impact. Here are ways you can help:

• Donate: Financial contributions support comprehensive aid programs, ensuring resources reach those most in need.
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to support initiatives on the ground or remotely.
• Raise Awareness: Share information about the Syrian refugee crisis to encourage broader support and engagement.

Conclusion

The humanitarian crisis for Syrian refugees requires ongoing and multifaceted support. By understanding the challenges faced by Syrians and contributing to the efforts of organizations like Humanity Increased, we can help alleviate suffering and build a more resilient future. Your support and generosity are crucial in making a lasting difference in the lives of millions of Syrian refugees.