The Syrian Future Movement, in light of the unprecedented climatic and environmental challenges facing Syria and the world, commemorates World Meteorological Day, observed annually on March 23, marking the anniversary of the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1950.
The Syrian Future Movement views this day not merely as a symbolic occasion but as a global opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of meteorological sciences in saving lives, ensuring sustainable development, and addressing the impacts of climate change.
The Syrian Future Movement considers this day essential for highlighting the role of meteorology in saving lives through early warning systems for natural disasters (such as floods and storms), supporting the economy by providing accurate data for agriculture, transportation, and energy sectors, and combating climate change by monitoring greenhouse gas emissions and analyzing their effects.
The Syrian Future Movement emphasizes the severe deterioration of Syria’s meteorological infrastructure due to the war, which has led to the destruction of observation stations and the suspension of accurate forecasting services. This has increased the risks of natural disasters, such as sudden floods in areas like Idlib and Latakia, desertification due to declining rainfall and rising temperatures, and agricultural crises caused by the difficulty in predicting rainy seasons, threatening food security.
The Syrian Future Movement calls for the restoration of weather observation stations in safe areas and equipping them with modern technology, as well as training national experts in partnership with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
The Syrian Future Movement stresses the importance of joining global initiatives such as the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS) to support climate adaptation and utilizing open data platforms to improve weather forecasting.
The Syrian Future Movement recommends using weather maps for agricultural project planning and water resource management, as well as developing early warning systems for disasters in collaboration with local and international relief organizations.
The Syrian Future Movement also emphasizes the need for awareness campaigns on rationalizing water consumption amid recurring droughts and engaging school and university students in climate monitoring programs.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that Syria’s recovery cannot be achieved without building scientific institutions capable of addressing environmental challenges. Therefore, we see World Meteorological Day as more than just monitoring “weather conditions”—it is a lifeline for a secure economy and a stable society.
The Syrian Future Movement calls on the Syrian government, the international community, and civil society organizations to prioritize the revival of the meteorological sector as a national priority, as Syria’s future begins with effective and scientifically beneficial steps.
