The CHF 60 million pledged by Switzerland will help to protect local populations, facilitate access to services and improve livelihoods. The aid is targeted at people affected by the conflict, including those living within Syria and in neighbouring countries. Switzerland has participated in every high-level conference held since 2017 to ensure a better future for Syria and the region.

Dire humanitarian situation

The humanitarian situation in Syria has deteriorated significantly over the past two years. Since 2020, the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance has risen from 11 to 14.6 million. This worsening crisis poses enormous challenges for humanitarian organisations. Neighbouring countries are also suffering from the consequences of the Syrian conflict: according to the United Nations, over 5.5 million people have fled Syria to neighbouring countries.

Switzerland has provided around CHF 590 million since 2011 to help mitigate the impact of the conflict on the populations of Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq. It is helping to meet people's needs throughout Syria, regardless of conflict lines and in accordance with humanitarian principles. The aid portfolio comprises projects to provide emergency assistance, protect the civilian population, and ensure resilience over the longer term, making it Switzerland's biggest ever humanitarian undertaking.

Broad Swiss engagement in the Syria crisis

In addition to its humanitarian engagement, Switzerland remains actively involved in the search for a political solution to the conflict, including as host state to the UN peace process. Furthermore, Switzerland is committed to promoting respect for international humanitarian law and human rights, and to combating impunity.

Switzerland has a strong interest in promoting peace, human rights, stability and the protection of people in need both in Syria and across the region.

Switzerland renews support for Syria, pledging CHF 60 million for 2022