Ms. Najat Rochdi, Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, convened the Humanitarian Task Force in Geneva, urging stakeholders and member states with leverage to prioritize the protection of civilians, safeguard critical infrastructure, and ensure that Syrian institutions continue to function within the framework of international law. 

Rapidly evolving events in Syria are creating new needs on the ground that come atop pre-existing ones – new waves of conflict-induced internal displacement, refugees returning in droves from neighboring countries, and thousands of recently released detainees in need of immediate support and aid, including shelter and transportation. 

Ms. Rochdi further emphasized the need for scaled-up protection and monitoring capacity, and called on member states with leverage to ensure the safe passage of civilians fleeing hostilities. Essential infrastructure, including schools and healthcare facilities, must be preserved, and pathways for civilians to flee violence safely or return home, when possible, must remain open.

Ms. Rochdi continues to engage with Syrians across all sectors, underscoring the international community’s responsibility to prevent further destabilization and to continue responding to the millions of people in need.

Ms. Rochdi urged all parties to allow unimpeded humanitarian access. With winter compounding existing challenges, and economic hardships—including disrupted supply chains and shortages of essential goods—90 percent of the population is left in poverty. Ms. Rochdi called for urgent efforts to prevent further disruptions to critical services. She reiterated that humanitarian assistance should be delivered throughout Syria through all modalities, and based on population needs assessment. 

Despite the ever-growing needs, however, the humanitarian response continues to face a severe funding shortfall, with less than one-third of the $4.1 billion required for 2024 secured. This has already translated into the diminishing or total cessation of critical services such as healthcare or protection programs for women and girls in many areas. Humanitarian workers are stretched thin, striving to meet life-saving needs under increasingly difficult circumstances. Donors are urged to fill the funding gap to sustain critical aid operations.

The United Nations reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the people of Syria, working to deliver assistance wherever possible. Today more than ever before, the international community needs to stand with the Syrians, wherever they are, and that starts with protection and dignity.