Responding to the Syria Crisis: Strengthening Resilience
The impact of the Syrian crisis on the development gains in the region spans at least a decade. The magnitude of the conflict has led to a high loss of human life and massive population displacement both within and outside of Syria and has destroyed social, economic and political fabrics of the country. Together, this has also had a devastating impact on neighboring countries and the sub-region at large.
Prior to the Syrian civil war, neighboring countries already faced substantial challenges including sluggish economic growth, relatively high levels of poverty and unemployment – especially among youth and women, as well as high public deficits and political tensions.
The Syria crisis has further deepened these threats, now confronting neighboring countries with the daunting challenges of addressing the influx of refugees and equally vulnerable host communities and populations, whilst maintaining macroeconomic and political stability.
Consequently, there is increased recognition amongst concerned governments and the international community that life-saving humanitarian responses, alone, are not sufficient, sustainable or cost-effective. A longer term development approach is necessary to build resilience, thereby reducing the need for humanitarian assistance over time.
Against this background, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) designs fast development interventions to respond to the crisis, trigger early recovery, support inclusive economic growth and build resilience.