March 2024 marked 13 years of the Syrian crisis, and humanitarian needs have reached unprecedented levels. Over 16 million people, approximately 70% of the country’s population, urgently require assistance. Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Türkiye collectively host more than 6.8 million Syrian refugees.
The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced $55.4 million in humanitarian assistance funding, which brings Canada’s total commitment to $147.15 million in international assistance funding to Syria and neighboring countries for 2024. Canada remains actively involved in supporting the region and is committed to working with international partners and the people of Syria to put an end to this crisis through a sustainable political solution.
“The prolonged conflict in Syria has left millions of people requiring urgent assistance, a need further exacerbated by the devastating natural disasters that struck the region in February 2023. Canada stands in solidarity with the people of Syria and those in neighbouring countries affected by this ongoing crisis, and we will continue to work with international partners to address this dire humanitarian crisis,” Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development.
Canada’s humanitarian assistance will be delivered in Syria and the region through experienced humanitarian partners and will help provide food; protection services, including the prevention, mitigation, and response to gender-based violence; water, sanitation, and hygiene services; and health services, including the provision of and right to access sexual and reproductive health care.
Development assistance funding is allocated through existing projects in Iraq, Jordan, and Lebanon that benefit Syrian refugees living in these countries and strengthen these countries’ ability to welcome more Syrians who have been displaced.
