His Highness the Aga Khan V announced a €100 million pledge from the Ismaili Imamat at a conference aimed at addressing Syria’s humanitarian and development needs. The funding will support critical areas such as healthcare, education, food security, and cultural preservation. AKDN has been active in Syria for over 25 years, focusing on crisis response and benefiting millions amid ongoing humanitarian crises.
On March 17, 2025, His Highness the Aga Khan V announced a pledge of at least €100 million for Syria’s humanitarian and development needs during a conference organized by the European Commission. This commitment aims to support an inclusive transition in Syria, responding to critical recovery and reconstruction challenges.
The conference, titled “Standing with Syria,” emphasized the importance of international collaboration in enabling Syria’s transition towards recovery. His Highness outlined specific areas of investment, focusing on renewable energy, healthcare, education, food security, and cultural preservation, emphasizing the need for peace as a prerequisite for progress.
Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, echoed the commitment to promoting inclusivity in rebuilding Syria. Various international representatives, including United Nations officials and the Syrian Interim Foreign Minister, attended the event, highlighting the international community’s consensus on aiding Syria’s recovery.
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) has a long-standing involvement in Syria, tackling socio-economic issues since 1999. Following the onset of the crisis, their focus shifted to crisis response strategies that have benefited over two million individuals. Current circumstances reveal dire humanitarian conditions, with 80% of the population living in poverty and significant declines in healthcare access and food security.
With over 780 locally-employed staff and 700 volunteers, AKDN aims to address urgent humanitarian needs while fostering social cohesion. The organization partners with various stakeholders, including the EU and UN agencies, to enhance the quality of life for marginalized Syrian communities.
As Syria faces a critical turning point in its crisis, the efforts by AKDN and international partners are vital in promoting recovery and resilience among the Syrian population. A collaborative approach, supported by substantial financial commitments, is essential in outlining a hopeful future for Syria.
The Ismaili Imamat’s pledge of €100 million represents a significant commitment to Syria’s recovery amid ongoing humanitarian challenges. The focus on inclusive governance and investment in essential sectors aims to address the urgent needs of the Syrian population, fostering community resilience and social cohesion. As the crisis evolves, collaboration between international stakeholders, including the Aga Khan Development Network, will be crucial in paving the way for a sustainable recovery.
Original Source: the.akdn
