The international community confirmed US$4.4 billion (EUR 3.6 billion) in funding at the fifth Brussels Conference on “Supporting the future of Syria and the region”, to support humanitarian, resilience and development activities in 2021 for the Syria crisis response, which includes pledges towards the Syria Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP), the Regional Refugee and Resilience Plan (3RP), and the ICRC Syria Crisis appeals.
This funding also includes support channelled via multi-donor mechanisms, as well as other funding for 2021. The funding will help to meet the immediate and basic needs of those affected by the humanitarian crisis in Syria, including supporting resilience efforts as well as supporting host countries to address the impact of the protracted crisis.
These efforts will aim to secure quality education for all children and livelihood opportunities for refugees and affected communities as well as promote basic public services and economic growth for the benefit of all.
Speaking at the start of the conference, UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored that ending the war in Syria is the collective responsibility of the international community. In a video message he said, “After a decade of war, many Syrians have lost confidence that the international community can help them forge an agreed path out of the conflict. I am convinced that we still can, along with the Syrian parties themselves.”
The international community also confirmed today US$2.0 billion (EUR 1.7 billion) in funding for humanitarian, resilience and development activities in 2022 and beyond for the Syria crisis response. This multi-year commitment by the international community to Syria and neighbouring countries is important in demonstrating a clear commitment to continued support for those most affected by the Syrian crisis and ensuring humanitarian and development agencies are able to plan ahead.
In closing remarks at the conference, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock highlighted the importance of access and funding. He said, “The humanitarian assistance we provide across Syria and in the region saves lives, protects people, provides education, and prevents the humanitarian situation from getting worse. It also depends on your generous and continuing funding.”
The conference was co-chaired by the United Nations and the European Union. The overarching objective of the Brussels Conference was to continue supporting the Syrian people and mobilize the international community in support of a comprehensive and credible political solution to the Syria conflict, in line with UN Security Council resolution 2254.
