Press releases, 10.05.2022

Switzerland has pledged to contribute CHF 60 million in 2022 to support the people of Syria and the surrounding region, whose humanitarian needs are greater than ever 11 years after the start of the conflict. Switzerland announced this amount on 10 May 2022 at the 6th Brussels Conference on Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region.

The CHF 60 million pledged by Switzerland will help to protect local populations, facilitate access to services and improve livelihoods. The aid is targeted at people affected by the conflict, including those living within Syria and in neighbouring countries. Switzerland has participated in every high-level conference held since 2017 to ensure a better future for Syria and the region.

Dire humanitarian situation

The humanitarian situation in Syria has deteriorated significantly over the past two years. Since 2020, the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance has risen from 11 to 14.6 million. This worsening crisis poses enormous challenges for humanitarian organisations. Neighbouring countries are also suffering from the consequences of the Syrian conflict: according to the United Nations, over 5.5 million people have fled Syria to neighbouring countries.

Switzerland has provided around CHF 590 million since 2011 to help mitigate the impact of the conflict on the populations of Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan and Iraq. It is helping to meet people's needs throughout Syria, regardless of conflict lines and in accordance with humanitarian principles. The aid portfolio comprises projects to provide emergency assistance, protect the civilian population, and ensure resilience over the longer term, making it Switzerland's biggest ever humanitarian undertaking.

Broad Swiss engagement in the Syria crisis

In addition to its humanitarian engagement, Switzerland remains actively involved in the search for a political solution to the conflict, including as host state to the UN peace process. Furthermore, Switzerland is committed to promoting respect for international humanitarian law and human rights, and to combating impunity.

Switzerland has a strong interest in promoting peace, human rights, stability and the protection of people in need both in Syria and across the region.


Further information:

MENA Strategy 2021-2024


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Last update 19.07.2023

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