Monthly Digest of the UN in Syria - December 2023

UNDP INITIATIVES ACROSS SYRIA DURING THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM

UNDP's 16 Days of Activism initiatives in Syria reflect a comprehensive approach, encompassing a range of activities. From stirring artistic expressions to eco-conscious initiatives like tree planting and engaging sporting events, these activities represent tangible investments in the tapestry of the Syrian society. Through these multifaceted avenues, UNDP strives to achieve its objectives, focusing on empowering individuals, raising awareness, fostering dialogue, advocating for equality, and working steadfastly towards the eradication of violence against women and girls. These efforts aim to create lasting change, promoting resilience, solidarity and a future where everyone, irrespective of gender, thrives in a safe and respectful environment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cq4FQ1KOLlA

UNICEF PROMOTES THE RIGHTS AND WELLBEING OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES

Every year on 3 December, International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed to promote the rights and wellbeing of people with disabilities.

Children with disabilities in Syria carry a double burden. They have survived or grown up in the conflict, missing out on learning, quality healthcare and access to services. The lack of mobility compounds their hardship. But like all children, children with disabilities have the right to be cared for and nurtured.

While the road ahead to helping more children with disabilities reach their full potential is long, UNICEF in Syria remains committed to supporting these children and breaking down barriers to their inclusion.

UNICEF Syria shared the story of Walaa. Despite the difficulties Walaa and her family had been through, she was a source of strength and hope. Walaa now is dreaming of a brighter future and trying to make it a reality.

https://www.unicef.org/syria/stories/dream-her-own

UN-HABITAT MARKS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Shadi Al Basha, a volunteer in the local community of Ar-Rastan City in northern rural Homs, exemplifies resilience and determination. During a workshop organized by UN-Habitat in Homs, Shadi’s valuable participation enriched the dialogue and motivated other community members to express their opinions. His extensive knowledge of the community, gained through his volunteer work, enabled him to effectively articulate the needs and priorities of his neighbourhood. Shadi was also involved in the damage assessment conducted by UN-Habitat in Ar-Rastan City. Leveraging his in-depth understanding of the area, Shadi guided the experts towards the severely damaged areas in his neighbourhood.

On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, UN-Habitat honours Shadi’s unwavering commitment to his community and his inspiring belief that individuals can shape a better future for themselves and their surroundings. Shadi’s efforts serve as a testament to the power of resilience and determination, breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more sustainable urban future.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=654368683518111&set=a.402907635330885

UNHCR LAUNCHES GIRL SHINE PROGRAMMEME IN SYRIA

As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, UNHCR is committed to empowering teenage girls and equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves from violence. The Girl Shine programme takes a comprehensive approach to addressing gender-based violence by teaching girls about their rights, promoting safe spaces, and building stronger relationships between girls and their caregivers.

https://www.facebook.com/UNHCRinSYRIA/videos/2076445439356753

UNMAS SYRIA'S ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2023: A YEAR OF PROGRESS IN MINE ACTION

In 2023 UNMAS cleared 752 unexploded ordnances (UXOs) in Rural Damascus, reducing the threat of unexploded ordnance, providing safe access for communities and humanitarian actors for livelihoods, access to basic services and support to rehabilitation.

The survey operations covered 21 million m2 in Rural Damascus and Aleppo, led to the identification of numerous UXOs and hazardous areas which will be subject for disposal and clearance.

Moreover, through implementing partners, UNMAS provided 2,380 services to victims and their families. These achievements underscore UNMAS's dedication to creating a safer, brighter future for all people in Syria.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedNationsMineActionService/posts/pfbid0NZQYmsby1rfqVh2Qncfb7BA5yh2v1aStqaNXdKPT7HGxzhY3pyGXyTz8JzzJZzg8l

ILO EMPOWERS PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES THROUGH EMPLOYMENT-INTENSIVE PROJECTS

In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake, amidst the shattered remains of homes and communities in Aleppo, Ahmad Al-Rukbi, a 26-year-old man with special needs, has found a new lease on life through an innovative employment programme. Overcoming significant communication challenges, Ahmad had struggled to secure employment, despite his resolve. However, a new project, spearheaded by the International Labour Organization (ILO), offered Ahmad a 50-day job contract, providing him with an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to his community's recovery.

https://www.facebook.com/61551426084048/posts/pfbid02ZvGatsjvm2BocaRWN5…

UNFPA MARKS THE CLOSING CEREMONY OF THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM CAMPAIGN AGAINST GBV

The annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign brought together the UN, non-governmental organizations, policymakers, civil society and the donor community in Syria to stand united in their commitment to ending gender-based violence (GBV).

The closing ceremony of the campaign served as a powerful platform to advocate for collective action towards eradicating GBV and promoting women's empowerment and the full realization of their rights.

Ms. Muriel Mafico, UNFPA Representative, delivered a compelling message, emphasizing that ending GBV is a shared responsibility that calls for everyone's collective action.

https://www.facebook.com/UNFPASyria/posts/pfbid02LVGqMFDWhUFy2CZ5v4ktKfvpS28fgAr9LHhtwCpDF74ur7Y65wUeJ4UnfTk7PuYHl

WHO AND GLOBAL FUND PARTNER TO ENHANCE TUBERCULOSIS SCREENING IN SYRIA

In collaboration with the Global Fund, the World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered two fully equipped mobile clinics for tuberculosis (TB) screening to Health Directorates in Lattakia and Homs. These clinics will provide essential TB screening services to underserved communities in these governorates, aiming to reach approximately 550 patients annually.

WHO aims at improving the health system of vulnerable communities in Syria and ensuring that essential healthcare services are accessible to all individuals, including those living in remote and underserved areas.

https://www.facebook.com/WHOSyria/posts/pfbid038J8ijsHqMfn6vUK76dB2A7pb6BWGdEhgmy5qJmU5DK6mDJcg9SNt3gRcFv7pxGv4l

WFP'S CRITICAL DECISION TO HALT FOOD ASSISTANCE FOR MILLIONS IN SYRIA

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has announced that its General Food Assistance (GFA) programme in Syria will be discontinued for 3.2 million people starting January 2024 due to lack of funding. Despite this setback, WFP will continue to operate its various other programmes in Syria, including nutrition programmes, school meals, livelihood support projects and interventions to bolster local food systems. These programmes aim to address the underlying causes of food insecurity and build resilience among vulnerable communities.

WFP remains committed to supporting the people of Syria and will explore options to provide assistance to the affected families on a smaller scale, depending on funding availability. WFP will keep the public informed through official channels. WFP continues to advocate for increased international support for food assistance in Syria and has dedicated over $3 billion to delivering vital food aid to millions of families in Syria over the past decade.

Prevoius Digests

Monthly Digest of the UN in Syria - December 2023

WFP'S CRITICAL DECISION TO HALT FOOD ASSISTANCE FOR MILLIONS IN SYRIA

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