3.5 Mln Syrians Endure Harsh Winter in Makeshift Camps

The prolonged crisis in Syria has led to severe humanitarian, economic, and security challenges, displacing millions internally.

Over 3.5 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) now reside in northern Syria, primarily in Idlib and northern Aleppo, according to a recent report by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Many live in informal camps that lack basic necessities.

The dire conditions in these camps have been exacerbated by the harsh winter. Sheikhmous Ahmed, head of humanitarian organizations in Syria, highlighted the grim reality, noting a severe shortage of drinking water, heating, and essential facilities in camps across northwestern Syria and regions east of the Euphrates.

He emphasized the growing need for winter-specific aid, including replacing damaged tents, improving drainage systems, and providing heating fuel.

Ahmed criticized the insufficient aid from the United Nations, stating that the support provided to camps in areas like Idlib, Afrin, and Azaz is minimal and falls far short of meeting the needs of the displaced population.

Camps in northern Aleppo, housing over 125,000 people, face critical shortages of food and supplies.

He called on international organizations and the global community to increase support for rebuilding infrastructure in war-damaged towns to facilitate the return of displaced Syrians.

Efforts should include rebuilding homes, schools, healthcare facilities, and utilities like water and electricity to ensure sustainable living conditions for returnees.

Journalist Osama Khalaf shed light on the situation in Raqqa’s countryside, home to several camps like Ain Issa and Tal Abyad. Since 2021, over 58 informal camps have emerged due to displacement, though the number has slightly decreased to 53 by 2024, housing 18,000 families.