The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID) the peak body for international development and humanitarian agencies, expresses solidarity with the Syrian people in a time of change and relief, but uncertainty as the country navigates the fall of the Assad regime.
The fall of the Assad regime represents a pivotal moment for Syria and the Syrian people after a brutal 13 year long civil war. According to the Syrian Network for Human Rights, the Syrian Civil War killed 580,000 and displaced 14 million. The Assad regime has been found to have committed mass killings, executions, forced disappearances, sexual violence and has used chemical weapons.
“At this critical juncture for the Syrian people, we call on the Australian Government to commit to further humanitarian and development assistance as Syria rebuilds,” said Naomi Brooks, ACFID’s Humanitarian and Public engagement lead.
“Reports of airstrikes across Syria by numerous countries are deeply concerning. Syrian civilians deserve peace and a chance to rebuild.”
ACFID remains concerned at the fragile situation on the ground, and urges the defacto authorities to create safe conditions for civilians and humanitarian workers and respect human rights.
“All parties must ensure that civilians are protected, can move freely and that humanitarian access is facilitated to those who require it, wherever they are.”
“Echoing the United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, we acknowledge the immense challenges ahead for the Syrian people, and we demonstrate a cautious optimism,” said Ms Brooks.
“We encourage the Australian Government and international community to work towards sustain peace, ensuring Syrians have access to humanitarian assistance, and are protected both inside and outside Syria.”
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact ACFID Media on 0401 721 064 or media@acfid.asn.au