Opinion Piece
Writes Aphrodite, Content Writer, Headline Diplomat eMagazin
Introduction
The occurrence of devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria last year, causing the tragic loss of over 50,000 lives, has deeply unsettled the Syrian population. This catastrophic event has raised significant concerns and fears about the potential for further deterioration of the already dire situation. Unfortunately, it appears that the answer to this pressing question is an unequivocal and distressing yes. The ongoing uncertainty and vulnerability that people face is deeply troubling and demand urgent attention and action.
The difficult situation in the nation posed additional challenges. Families face a lengthy journey to reach the location, a challenge that was also experienced by others who lacked transportation or fuel. On that chilly and dim winter day, the local community came together to clear the wreckage using only their hands.
The question that lingered in our minds was whether the destruction would have been as severe if the dispute had never occurred. If the quality of services had been improved, would people have survived?
One year has passed, and the state of Syria has deteriorated. According to the United Nations, the number of individuals in need of humanitarian aid has risen from 15.3 million to 16.7 million, the highest it has been since the beginning of hostilities approximately 13 years ago. However, there is now a paradox as the humanitarians, are in fact expected to support more people with limited resources. They are faced with the task of prioritizing, having to decide between preventing starvation or providing education for children.
As the situation keeps deteriorating we are genuinely concerned about the future of the Syrian generations. The options for resolution are becoming scarce, while the demands continue to escalate.
Tension, Environmental Conditions, and Deteriorating Financial State
After the earthquake, the country has faced three major challenges: renewed conflict, the impact of climate change, and a declining economy. A surge in violence, the most significant in five years, hit northern Syria in October, while airstrikes conducted by neighbouring countries in southern and central Syria in January have heightened risks, especially for children. The UN reported that about one-third of households observed signs of mental distress in children.
The economic turmoil, exacerbated by sanctions, has rendered daily life unmanageable for the average citizens of Syria. In 2023, the currency experienced its most severe decline, resulting in an inflation rate that turned essential items into extravagant luxuries.
According to the UN, a shocking 90% of households faced difficulties in meeting their basic needs, forcing families to make difficult choices for their children. Due to financial constraints, they are unable to purchase wood. As a result, their only option is to roam the streets in search of plastic or any other combustible material to keep themselves warm.
One year has passed since the situation in Syria has deteriorated. According to the United Nations, the number of individuals in need of humanitarian aid has risen from 15.3 million to 16.7 million, the highest it has been since the beginning of hostilities approximately 13 years ago. This increase in the number of people requiring assistance poses a significant challenge for us as humanitarians. With limited resources, we are now faced with the difficult task of prioritizing our efforts. We must make tough decisions, weighing the urgency of preventing starvation against the importance of providing education for children. This paradox highlights the immense pressure we face in trying to meet the needs of a growing population with limited means.
In the wake of a year characterized by unpredictable precipitation and record-breaking temperatures caused by climate change, destructive wildfires ravaged the nation in July.
Increasing Demand, Decreasing Assistance
As the need for assistance has risen, the level of aid being offered has fallen. Earlier this year, the primary food aid initiative of the World Food Programme (WFP) in the country was suspended due to inadequate funding. The level of financial support for Syria is diminishing as other urgent matters take precedence. Beyond just the financial aspect, international attention on the crisis is also diminishing, giving rise to a significant worry: will the suffering of Syrians be disregarded by the world?
The nation of Syria remains a hotbed of conflict, drawing the attention of major international forces. Unfortunately, amidst this turmoil, the plight of the Syrian people often goes unnoticed. No matter addressing the UN Security Council, which has happened on multiple occasions, we also urge the global community to view the ongoing crisis in Syria as a catalyst for reevaluating our approach and strategy towards the nation. Is it sufficient to only ensure the survival of children without tackling the underlying issue? The response has been evident, but progress has yet to be made.
The Struggle of Children Reaching a Breaking Point
Numerous young ones are experiencing the aftermath of both strife and seismic activity.
Despite a study conducted by Save the Children showing that nearly 70% of children experience feelings of sadness, there is a lack of mental health support for young individuals. The United Nations reports that more than half of healthcare practitioners, including licensed mental health experts, have departed the country within the last ten years.
It is not only the earthquake that causes fear, as the camp has also been targeted with numerous bomb attacks. Before the earthquake, many parents were killed in bombings. Mothers or fathers may rely on aid for survival, struggling to afford even necessities like bread. People leave in fear, increasingly withdrawn, constantly living in fear for their safety.
In the past five years, several regions affected by the earthquake have been at the center of conflicts, however, the earthquake itself did not discriminate between these conflict zones. It caused severe destruction in communities that were already facing difficulties. The disaster greatly affected individuals who were already struggling to maintain their mental, physical, and financial well-being.
Last year, many individuals were compelled to take refuge in shelters without access to heating or electricity following the earthquake. The survivors of the earthquake, who were already struggling, had to assist those in need.
The impact of the earthquake is undoubtedly connected to the ongoing conflict that has lasted for nearly 13 years. Numerous structures, which had already been weakened by the conflict, collapsed easily. Homes without proper foundations and showing signs of bullet damage, as well as schools damaged by fighting, were among those affected. The areas that were densely populated due to the large-scale displacement experienced a higher number of casualties.
While natural disasters cannot be avoided, we must work towards enhancing our response to them.
The Future: What is to Come?
The recent earthquakes in Syria have once again drawn global attention to the country, presenting a chance for substantial reflection and change.
Moving ahead, the clear course of action is to prioritize the restoration of essential services in Syria. This involves not only repairing or improving current infrastructure but also establishing secure zones and educational facilities for children and ensuring fair compensation for teachers in their field.
Investment is crucial for sustainable initiatives that prioritize helping parents secure well-paying jobs, promoting self-sufficient farming practices to reduce reliance on food aid, and strengthening healthcare systems to foster healthy growth in children. It is important to offer sufficient mental health support to children and their families to assist them in dealing with the challenges they have been compelled to confront.
Currently, there is a lack of adequate funding and support to achieve this objective. The work of humanitarian workers has grown more demanding. There has been no advancement in reaching a peaceful resolution. While financial assistance is vital, it is equally important for funders to have confidence in our capacity to effect change. Persisting with limited resources and upholding the existing situation will not result in better outcomes for children. Undoubtedly, the current global situation is more precarious than it was a year ago, and Syria is just one of numerous nations grappling with unrest, especially in its neighbouring regions.
Ensuring that children worldwide have the chance to grow up in a safe, dignified, and hopeful setting is a responsibility of the international community. Collaborative efforts, continuous support, and focused action are essential in paving the way for a better future for Syria. Amidst the significant global challenges, it is crucial to remember the ongoing struggles faced by the people of Syria.
Conclusion
The devastating earthquakes in Syria have compounded the already dire situation in the country, exacerbating challenges and increasing the suffering of its people, particularly children. As we reflect on the past year, it is evident that Syria is facing a multitude of crises, from renewed conflict to economic instability and diminishing humanitarian assistance. The urgent need for action and support is undeniable, and the international community must prioritize the restoration of essential services, investment in sustainable initiatives, and the provision of mental health support to alleviate the plight of Syrian children and families.
Call to Action
As we look to the future, it is imperative for the global community to come together in solidarity and support for Syria. We must prioritize humanitarian aid, increase funding for essential services, and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Collaborative efforts, continuous support, and focused action are essential in paving the way for a better future for Syria’s children. Let us not forget the ongoing struggles faced by the people of Syria and remain committed to providing them with the hope and assistance they urgently need.
Featured Photo: Ahmet Zeki: https://www.pexels.com/el-gr/photo/16088181/
