Gaziantep – After 13 years of conflict, the humanitarian situation in Northwest Syria continues to deteriorate. 4.2 million people remain in need of assistance to meet their basic needs, while the number of displaced people climbed in 2024.

To support the most vulnerable communities in the Idleb and Aleppo Governorates, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the European Union, in partnership with the International Humanitarian Relief Association (IYD), provided lifesaving assistance to over 31,500 people across 28 camps.

The project, implemented between May 2023 and July 2024 as part of IOM's cross-border operations, enabled the installation of dignified shelter units, enhancement of water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, and delivery of multipurpose cash.

With 800,000 people in the region still living in tents, 871 new shelter units in three camps will allow 3,300 to enjoy more humane living conditions. Composed of a steel frame, insulation material, lockable entrance and solar-powered lighting system, the prefabricated shelter offers greater durability. Each unit contains a kitchen, living area and hygiene facilities.

“It has made a huge difference – a big psychological relief. We no longer have this tense situation due to our hard living conditions,” expresses Khaled, one recipient. “Every year, we had to put stones around the tent to prevent it from flying,” he explains of his previous difficulties.

“These shelters are cost-effective, can last up to 10 years, give families greater privacy, and protect them from harsh weather conditions,” remarks Gerard Karl Waite, IOM Türkiye Chief of Mission.

IOM connected the shelters to water networks and sewage networks, which were rehabilitated and expanded. Direct access to clean water is critical for communities to maintain public health, having faced the severe consequences of a cholera outbreak, and amidst rising temperatures globally.

IOM further improved WASH infrastructure and distributed hygiene kits in 22 camps. Notably, IOM implemented a first-of-its kind waste management solution – a Material Recovery Facility – which collects waste from households and marketplaces and transforms it into compost, contributing to agriculture and food security.

With 7 of 10 people in the region food insecure, IOM further delivered multipurpose cash to empower families in eight camps with the flexibility to secure what they need most. A total of USD 1,144,300 was disbursed to 1,589 households across eight rounds of distribution. Households received USD 100 per round.

“With global attention turning away from the Syrian crisis and funding at an all-time low, we’re grateful for the European Union’s support to IOM’s lifesaving initiatives,” adds Mr. Waite. “We’re committed to doing more with the resources we have.”

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For more information, please contact:

• Miko Alazas, IOM Türkiye Media and Communications Officer (aalazas@iom.int)
• Yamen Al Najjar, IYD IT and Communications Manager (y.najjar@iydrelief.org)