Additionally, developments since late November have added new dimensions to the crisis, including population displacement as well as the return of Syrian refugees from neighboring countries. This development also includes the fall of former ruler Bashar al-Assad.
Since November 2024, more than 8 lakh 82 thousand Syrians have been displaced amid increasing violence, further increasing the pressure on the country’s fragile healthcare system. Attacks on health facilities have also increased, with 37 such incidents recorded in November, according to the UN health agency WHO. More than half of Syria’s hospitals are no longer functioning, and northern 141 health facilities in Aleppo and Idlib are on the verge of closing due to lack of funds. Extreme pressure on health services Christina Bethke, WHO’s acting representative for the country, said, “The health infrastructure in Syria is more seriously strained than ever. “Our teams are currently providing health care through mobile clinics, resuming vaccination services, and integrating mental health support into health facilities,” he said. Especially for people affected by trauma.” “This appeal is about protecting health and dignity, as well as providing hope for a secure future for the Syrian people.” The UN health agency aims to strengthen health system coordination through its center in Gaziantep, Turkey. Also, which is providing assistance to approximately 5 million Syrian people. These include people living in hard-to-reach areas. Focus on refugee challenges Meanwhile, the UN refugee agency – UNHCR has highlighted the significant challenges facing displaced populations and returning refugees, especially vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, women and children. Many refugees returning from neighboring countries are facing serious difficulties, due to destroyed houses they have to live in tents, stay with relatives. or have to pay exorbitant rents. Unexploded ordnance (UXO) in homes near agricultural land or former border areas pose serious risks. Returnees require legal assistance, psychosocial support and school rehabilitation. The UN Refugee Agency’s partners, in their relief work, have helped children in rural areas of Aleppo, Hasakeh, Ar-Raqqa and Tartous. Programs have been started to keep people busy. These include livelihood grants, relief distribution, prevention of sexual violence and security activities, including awareness sessions on unexploded ordnance (UXO) and other hazardous items.