The Syrian Future Movement, on World Tuberculosis Day—observed globally on March 24 in remembrance of Robert Koch’s discovery of the tuberculosis-causing bacteria in 1882—raises its voice to highlight the dangers of this silent epidemic and calls for collective efforts to combat it in Syria, especially after more than a decade of war that has left the healthcare system in ruins and communities suffering from poverty and displacement.
The Syrian Future Movement reminds that the war has destroyed healthcare infrastructure, led to malnutrition, and caused overcrowding in camps, making Syria a fertile ground for the spread of infectious diseases, particularly tuberculosis. Local and international reports indicate a rise in pulmonary and drug-resistant tuberculosis cases, especially in displacement areas.
The Syrian Future Movement stresses the importance of raising awareness about this disease, which remains stigmatized, leading to hidden infections and delayed treatment, worsening its spread and complications. Therefore, we call for awareness campaigns in partnership with civil society organizations to educate people about symptoms such as chronic cough and weight loss and emphasize the importance of adhering to months-long treatment.
The Syrian Future Movement highlights the link between tuberculosis and poverty, asserting that combating it requires political and social will to achieve health justice.
The Syrian Future Movement calls for early tuberculosis detection by providing free screenings in the most affected areas and supporting laboratories with modern diagnostic equipment.
The Syrian Future Movement urges the reconstruction of the healthcare sector by rehabilitating medical centers and training personnel on tuberculosis control programs, especially in rural areas.
The Syrian Future Movement recommends supporting tuberculosis patients and survivors by providing free medications, psychological and nutritional support programs, and engaging survivors in awareness campaigns to share their experiences.
The Syrian Future Movement calls on all Syrian forces to push for lifting international sanctions that hinder the import of medical supplies and medications and to leverage cooperation with international organizations such as the World Health Organization.
The Syrian Future Movement views World Tuberculosis Day not just as a date but as an opportunity to place public health at the heart of reconstruction priorities. We call on all local and international stakeholders to assume their responsibilities, as fighting tuberculosis is not just a humanitarian act but an investment in Syria’s future—where healing from disease is a step toward healing the nation.
