Monthly Digest of the UN in Syria - March 2024
UNDP SUPPORTS INCLUSIVE SPACES FOR EMPOWERING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
Over 13 years of crisis have caused widespread unemployment and poverty in Syria, impacting women and people with disabilities the most.
“Warak Ateek” a cultural cafe in Lattakia, is run by and employs women, including 37-year-old Marcelle, with a developmental disability and Alia, a 24-year-old with Down syndrome.
‘Warak Ateek’ (Arabic for ‘antique paper’) Cafe was one of 26 winning projects that received financial support and mentorship as part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Idea Challenge funded by Germany.
The project represents the first social enterprise programme in Syria to support the development of new and existing social enterprises led by women, staffed by women and created for women who can be catalysts for change.
https://www.undp.org/syria/stories/warak-ateek-where-coffee-culture-and-inclusivity-blend
UNFPA CELEBRATES THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY INSPIRING WOMEN IN DARAA
In celebration of International Women’s Day, UNFPA joined forces with the Syrian Family Planning Association and the Syrian Society for Social Development to host an event called “Inspirations” in Dar’a Governorate.
Six remarkable women shared their stories of resilience and determination as they overcame challenges and pursued success. The event was concluded with a vibrant bazaar with the participation of several associations and organizations from the governorate. This marketplace showcased beautiful handmade products created by women and girls who have taken part in various economic empowerment activities. This initiative aims to equip women with skills and resources needed to thrive in the workforce, fostering their ability to work, produce and confidently enter the labor market.
UNHCR SUPPORTS RETURNEE FAMILEIS IN DEIR-EZ-ZOR TO REBUILD THEIR LIVES
“I hope to expand my business and establish my own sewing workshop,” said Hanan, a mother of five from Ashara town in rural Deir-ez-Zor, who refused to be defeated by hardship.
Returning home after the crisis, Hanan found her house empty. Using just a needle and an awl, she started repairing old shoes, creating an income for her family.
UNHCR stepped in to support. They provided Hanan with a sewing machine, tools and a workspace.
"The community centre helped me rebuild my life," Hanan added.
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=944923320682619
UNICEF MARKS WORLD WATER DAY
This World Water Day, the theme is ‘Water for Peace’. Every child deserves safe drinking water, no matter where they live.
In Syria, UNICEF is working tirelessly to help families in need. The crisis and recent earthquakes have damaged water networks, putting access to clean water at risk for millions.
To mark the day, UNICEF sheds light on one of the rehabilitation projects for a key part of the water network serving Aleppo City. UNICEF replaced a crucial 1-kilometre section of the pipeline, restoring access to clean water for an estimated 700,000 people. This vital project helps maintain water pressure and prevent water loss, protecting children from waterborne diseases.
https://www.facebook.com/UNICEF.in.Syria/videos/428048119606388/
ILO CONCLUDES WORK-BASED LEARNING PROJECT IN ALEPPO
The ILO's Work-Based Learning project, implemented in partnership with the local NGO Sanad, culminated in a graduation ceremony at the Aleppo Chamber of Commerce. Over 100 trainees participated in the programme during November and December 2023. They gained valuable hands-on skills in various professions, while being paid for their work. Twenty-four of the trainees secured job contracts. ILO celebrated their achievements by presenting certificates to each participant, acknowledging their commitment and dedication throughout the project.
FAO SYRIA ACTING REPRESENTATIVE’S STATEMENT ON WORLD WATER DAY
On World Water Day, FAO Acting Representative in Syria stressed the importance of restoring water for irrigation as a key element for agriculture and food production. Thousands of rural families depend on agriculture as the main source of income and livelihood. A large percentage of these families lack access to irrigation water to cultivate profitable crops around the year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVdjLiLtcdI&list=PLzp5NgJ2-dK7mHIH-lJFMUbC2X_Cjuywc
OCHA URGES THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY TO REMEMBER SYRIA AS THE SCARS OF A RELENTLESS CRISIS DEEPEN AND CRITICAL NEEDS SURGE
Thirteen years of relentless crisis have left deep scars on Syria. People are displaced, struggling and burdened by pain. Rehab's story is a heart-wrenching example. After losing her husband, she was left with five children to raise alone. Every day is a fight for survival, as Rehab works tirelessly to put food on the table and find medicine for her children. Rehab's story echoes the stories of millions of people across Syria, who are struggling to bear the weight of this protracted crisis.
https://twitter.com/OCHA_Syria/status/1768927686498439487
WFP MARKS THE 13TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CRISIS IN SYRIA, STRESSING THE SEVERITY OF CHALLENGES AMIDST THE RECENT GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN FUNDING SHORTFALLS
Over 13 years of crisis have ravaged Syria's food security, leaving millions on the brink of hunger. Syria remains a global hotspot with some of the highest hunger rates, and the situation has worsened further due to a global shortage of humanitarian funding, impacting the World Food Programme's (WFP) ability to assist.
Nearly 13 million people are estimated to be hungry in 2024, with an additional 2.6 million at risk of hunger. Children are particularly vulnerable, with one-third going to school without breakfast and eight out of nine not meeting their minimum nutritional needs. Alarmingly, one in five children suffers from iron deficiency and maternal malnutrition is also prevalent.
Despite these challenges, WFP remains a steadfast advocate and a vital lifeline for the vulnerable. WFP remains dedicated to continuing the fight against hunger and ensuring access to critical food assistance for those who need it most.
https://twitter.com/WFP_Syria/status/1768547683453612123?s=20
WHO MARKS 13 YEARS OF THE SYRIAN CRISIS AND REAFFIRMS ITS COMMITMENT TO PROVIDING ONGOING SUPPORT
More than 13 years of the crisis in Syria have had a devastating impact on the healthcare system. A staggering 65 per cent of hospitals and 62 per cent of primary healthcare centres are either closed or barely functioning, leaving millions struggling to access essential medical care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is on the ground, working closely with the Ministry of Health and humanitarian partners to ensure that people receive the critical healthcare they need. Since the crisis started, WHO has delivered nearly 80 million medical treatments, supported over 11 million medical procedures and 3.3 million trauma consultations. Additionally, the organization has trained approximately 178,000 health professionals.
WHO's commitment to Syria will continue to provide life-saving operations focused on the most vulnerable populations while also supporting long-term rehabilitation and rebuilding of the healthcare system.
