In 2025, Syria stands at the threshold of a new era marked by hope - but the humanitarian crisis is far from over.
After 14 years of fighting, displacement, and violence, more than 70 per cent of Syria’s population — over 16 million people — require humanitarian aid and protection, compared to only five per cent in the first year of the conflict. Over 14 million people do not have enough food to eat, with millions more teetering on the brink of hunger.
With 7 million people displaced across the country, Syria remains one of the world’s largest and most protracted crises. Over 2 million, mostly women and children, are living in camps in the north. However, unlike in previous years, the subsiding levels of conflict have created new opportunities for displaced families to return home. As of 10 April, more than 1 million people formerly displaced inside the country have returned — most of them displaced in November and December. In addition, some 400,000 Syrians have crossed back from neighboring countries.
Key barriers to return include the widespread destruction of people’s home areas and the threat of explosive remnants of war, among other constraints. Aid workers are doing their utmost to help — reaching the hungry with food, the sick with healthcare, and those returning with legal assistance — at a time when the country is turning a corner toward recovery. More sustainable solutions are also being implemented, such as mine clearance, the rehabilitation of homes and schools, and the installation of solar panels to power water stations in the most cost-effective way.
However, ongoing deep funding cuts have resulted in the suspension of health facilities, schools and humanitarian activities — with the greatest impact falling on women and children.
Against all odds, communities in Syria continue to stand with unshaken resilience, strength, and hope.
Through this publication, we aim to offer a glimpse into the reality of a new Syria — and the challenges and opportunities that define this moment — through the voices of those directly affected.
Disclaimer
- UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
- To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit https://www.unocha.org/.