Johanniter in Syria

We have been active in Syria since 2012 and more recently after the 2023 earthquake
Sectors: Health, Food Security and Livelihoods
How we help: Emergency Response, Humanitarian Aid, Early Recovery
Target groups: Earthquake affected Population, Internati Dosplaced Persons (IDPs) and Host Communities
Partners: BAHAR, MAPS

Needs and Context

The earthquake in February 2023 with a magnitude of 7.8 caused great destruction in Syria.

The humanitarian needs in Syria are continuing to increase due to escalating violence, leading to more displacement and suffering, as a consequence of a lack of political solution and status quo. The socioeconomic situation continues to deteriorate, exacerbated by the February 2023 earthquakes and tensions in the region. These factors have had a negative impact on social cohesion and increased vulnerabilities.

It is estimated that in 2024, 16.7 million people will require humanitarian assistance, marking the highest number since the crisis began in 2011. The rapid economic decline and lack of job opportunities further expose vulnerable individuals to risks and threats, including an increased risk of sexual exploitation, abuse, and other forms of gender-based violence, especially for women and children as they seek ways to meet their basic daily needs.

Johanniter's Interventions in Syria

Johanniter, supports it's partners BAHAR and MAPS to provide aid to the populations most affected by the earthquake. The national partners delivered thousands of hot meals, fuel for hospitals, rehabilitation material for hundreds of damaged houses and apartments, vouchers, unconditional cash, and cash for work. This aid was implemented in Northwest Syria (Afrin, Jindires) and targeted Syrians and minorities affected by the earthquake in that region.

Years active in the country

We have been supporting people in Syria since 2012.

Percent of the population

are dependent on humanitarian aid in North West Syria.

Million people

have been internally displaced due to the earthquake 2023.

With our partner BAHAR, we are now supporting people with income generating activities in the short term through a cash-for-work programme for the benefit of the communities. In the long term, the aim is to make particularly needy women and men become more self-sufficient.

The earthquake also destroyed important infrastructure. Johanniter supported BAHAR rebuilding damaged water tanks, supply roads and canals, thereby improving the living conditions of 7000 people.

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A father talks about the reconstruction of his family home by MAPS.

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Our partner BAHAR teaches people everything they need to know for their own business in courses.

Turkey after the earthquakes

Johanniter also supported people in Turkey who lost their homes after the earthquakes in February 2023.