Syria: 10 Million Euros to Aid Vulnerable People in Syria Affected by Drought

The EU has mobilized an additional 10 million euros to help people in Syria. With this funding, the EU’s total humanitarian support to Syria in 2021 amounts to 141 million. euros. The funding announced today will help people gain access to water and restore critical water infrastructure. It will also improve hygiene conditions in government and non-government controlled areas. It will rapidly provide food and nutrition and contribute to the expansion of basic medical services. The funding will also help vulnerable people throughout the winter with heating fuel, blankets, winter clothes, and tent repairs.
Since the summer of 2021, Syria has been facing an acute water crisis due to the worst drought in 70 years. More than 5 million people in Syria are losing access to water, food, and electricity. Additionally, about 4.5 million people in Syria urgently need help to prepare for winter.
The acute water crisis in Syria is closely linked to climate change, the politicization of water, and the degradation of water infrastructure. The disruption of electricity production hinders access to basic services, especially health services. Agricultural production is also at serious risk. It is estimated that 1.8 million people will face emergency levels of food insecurity by the end of the year. 12 million people are already food insecure.
Furthermore, an estimated 4.5 million people in Syria urgently need winter assistance. This number represents a 12% increase from 2021 due to prolonged displacement, currency fluctuations, limited employment opportunities, and COVID-19.
The EU and its Member States continue to be a significant donor for Syrians in need. Since the beginning of the crisis in 2011, more than 24.9 billion euros have been mobilized to support the most vulnerable Syrians inside the country and across the region.