Key messages
The Syria conflict has triggered the world's largest humanitarian crisis since World War II. Humanitarian needs are huge, population displacement persists and fighting continues in many parts of the country. In Aleppo and in other areas of the country the scale of destruction is massive; needs for basic services, protection, shelter and infrastructures are widespread in both urban and rural areas.
The European Union and its Member States are collectively lead providers of international aid. More than € 9.2 billion has been mobilised for relief and recovery assistance to Syrians inside the country, from any entry point possible (cross border, cross line), and to refugees and their host communities in neighbouring Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Turkey and Egypt.
The European Commission is funding humanitarian programmes implemented by its humanitarian partners who provide millions of people with life-saving assistance including food and safe drinking water, non-food items, shelter, emergency medical treatments and protection.
The EU welcomes the cessation of hostilities that entered into effect on 30 December 2016; the ceasefire guarantors' commitment to facilitate humanitarian access; the renewal of the UNSC Resolution 2165 (with adoption of UNSCR 2332) allowing cross border aid activities; as well as all efforts to restore peace in Syria. The EU calls for the respect of the ongoing ceasefire, the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), the protection of civilians, especially children, women and other vulnerable groups and for unhindered unconditioned humanitarian access to all those in need.