Syria is experiencing severe food insecurity affecting over half its population due to civil war repercussions and political transitions. A UN report indicated 14.5 million people are food insecure, with urgent funding needed for humanitarian assistance. The situation worsens with rising violence, deteriorating living conditions, and inadequate international aid, highlighting the need for governance reforms to restore stability.
Syria is experiencing a substantial food insecurity crisis affecting more than half its population, largely due to the consequences of 13 years of civil war, the fall of Bashar Assad’s regime, and a rising number of returnees. A lack of sufficient funding for humanitarian organizations could exacerbate the situation during this politically tumultuous time. As of late January, a United Nations report documented that approximately 14.5 million Syrians are facing food shortages, with 9.1 million in acute insecurity and an additional 5.4 million at risk of starvation.
Rola Dashti, the executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia, characterizes Syria’s current state as a pivotal moment that could lead to reconstruction or more chaos. The urgency is underscored by deteriorating healthcare, uprooted communities, and ongoing humanitarian crises. She cautioned, “The stakes for the country, and for the region, could not be higher.”
The interim government, following the coalition of opposition groups gaining control, has faced increased political and economic instability despite initial relief from Assad’s ouster. With expectations of over one million refugees returning by June, recent violence has triggered further displacements, complicating the humanitarian response and disrupting food security, especially in regions like Idlib and Aleppo.
Recent violent clashes have led to logistical challenges, looting of warehouses, and damage to agricultural infrastructure, all crucial for the planting season. The UN reports that about 90% of Syrians now live in poverty, with around 16.7 million requiring humanitarian assistance. Urgent support is necessary, with ESCWA indicating that roughly $560 million is required for a three-month emergency food response.
Despite the dire needs, international support remains inadequate, as stated by Cindy McCain from the World Food Programme. She noted resistance from some governments to increase aid levels under the new ruling coalition. Though officials pledge to revamp the economy through privatization and cuts, sanctions and years of conflict have severely deteriorated the economy.
Syria’s economy has contracted significantly, with its GDP shrinking by 64% since the war began in 2011. Landis, an expert on Middle East studies, linked the upheaval in governance with an economic failure exacerbated by low salaries of military personnel. Though wages have recently increased due to foreign assistance, they still provide little relief to the populace facing economic turmoil.
Plans from the interim government to raise public servant salaries may lead to widespread layoffs, as some 33% of the workforce is expected to be dismissed. The legislated measure aims to eliminate nonessential employees but risks further deepening hunger amongst the former regime’s supporters being phased out. Economic realities are grim, with many unable to afford essential items, despite a drop in food prices.
Residents report a paradox of low food prices coupled with diminished purchasing power caused by unpaid salaries for two months. While some goods become cheaper, the economic situation remains dire, particularly for staples like bread, which has surged in price since the regime’s change. The struggle highlights a broader crisis, with residents unable to fulfill basic dietary needs amid newfound access to imports and luxury products that remain unaffordable.
The call for addressing hunger extends beyond immediate needs, as McCain described Syria’s situation as a significant national and regional security concern. Experts warn that failure to implement effective reforms will lead to increased dissent against the interim government, potentially fueling unrest and drawing attention to regional stability.
Syria’s tumultuous transition requires inclusivity and international collaboration to avoid exacerbating the hunger crisis. ESCWA emphasizes that a dual focus on governance reform and humanitarian need is crucial for sustainable recovery. Without a cooperative approach, Syria risks prolonged instability with increased fragmentation and criminal challenges across its borders.
The ongoing food insecurity in Syria stems from years of civil conflict, the recent political transitions, and a lack of international support for humanitarian assistance. The country now grapples with a fractured political landscape that has intensified humanitarian needs. There is a critical need for reforms and timely international aid to prevent worsening conditions amidst significant population challenges, including refugees returning and widespread poverty.
Syria faces a severe food insecurity crisis, requiring immediate international support and effective governance reforms to avert further chaos and humanitarian disasters. The challenges are compounded by ongoing violence, economic instability, and political fragmentation, underscoring the urgency of coordinated efforts for recovery. Addressing the crisis is not just about providing aid but also establishing a sustainable political framework that can stabilize the region.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
