Syrian crisis: Switzerland pledges CHF 60 million to support future of Syria and countries in region

Press releases, 17.03.2025

The direction of future developments in Syria remains uncertain since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad on 8 December 2024. In view of the scale of needs there, Switzerland reaffirms its support. At the Ninth Brussels Conference on Syria, held by the EU on 17 March 2025, the director general of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Patricia Danzi, announced a contribution of CHF 60 million.

Following 13 years of war and the recent events, Syria remains severely affected by the consequences of armed conflict. In response to this grave situation, Switzerland is continuing to support Syria by contributing CHF 60 million. In doing so, it is responding to the needs of the populations in Syria and neighbouring countries, and stands ready to respond to any new needs that may arise. This funding will be allocated to Switzerland's multilateral and bilateral partners, as well as to Swiss expert missions and projects. In the interest of ensuring consistent support, this amount matches the amounts allocated in 2023 and 2024.

The aim of the Ninth Brussels conference was to mobilise international support for an inclusive and peaceful transition. The objective was to raise funds for humanitarian and non-humanitarian aid, in order to ensure sustained support for Syrians, both within the country and in the communities hosting refugees in the region.

Responding to basic needs and strengthening resilience

In view of the current situation, Switzerland calls on all parties to guarantee the protection of civilians and infrastructure and to ensure rapid, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian aid throughout Syria.

Since the Syrian crisis began, Switzerland has provided assistance throughout the country based on the population's needs, regardless of conflict lines. The scope of this assistance makes it one of the largest humanitarian operations in the SDC's history, which has had a humanitarian office there since 2017. The SDC is continuing its activities in close collaboration with international and local actors.

A political transition is vital

The FDFA has been closely following developments since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Switzerland supports the aspirations of the Syrian people to live in freedom, security and dignity. It also supports the efforts of the UN Special Envoy for Syria with a view to a rapid political transition process, set up and led by the Syrian people. Switzerland firmly believes that only a peaceful and inclusive political transition will allow the Syrian people to live in peace, security and dignity, and stands ready to support the country on this path.


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Publisher:

Federal Department of Foreign Affairs