The Syrian Future Movement issues this statement on the occasion of Global Handwashing Day, which falls on October 15th of each year. This statement emphasizes the importance of this day in instilling a culture of health prevention and promoting individual behaviors that contribute to protecting society from infectious diseases, especially in light of the health and environmental challenges facing Syria and the region.
The Syrian Future Movement recalls that this day was first launched in 2008 at the initiative of the Global Handwashing Partnership, with support from international organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization. This was in response to the widespread prevalence of diseases resulting from poor personal hygiene and a lack of health awareness in many developing societies. Studies have proven that handwashing with soap and water can reduce the incidence of diarrhea by up to 50% and respiratory diseases by approximately 25%.
In Syria, despite the difficult circumstances the country is experiencing, promoting a culture of personal hygiene, particularly handwashing, is a national and moral necessity. Statistics indicate that approximately 75% of Syrian households have facilities for handwashing with soap and water. This percentage demonstrates relative progress, but it does not fully reflect the reality in rural areas and camps, which suffer from weak health infrastructure.
The Syrian Future Movement views this day as an opportunity to renew the national commitment to public health and emphasizes that instilling the values of cleanliness is not limited to the medical aspect, but extends to the cultural and religious roots that shape the conscience of Syrian society. The teachings of Islam clearly encourage purity, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Purity is half of faith.” Christianity also emphasizes the importance of physical and spiritual purity, linking external purity with internal clarity, as the Bible states: “Purify me, and I will be whiter than snow” (Psalm 51:7).
From this perspective, the Syrian Future Movement calls for:
- Strengthening health awareness programs in schools and local communities, linking them to deeply rooted religious and cultural values.
- Supporting initiatives aimed at providing clean water and soap in deprived areas.
- Integrating the concept of health prevention into public policies as part of human security.
- Encouraging local media to highlight the importance of daily health behaviors, including handwashing.
The Syrian Future Movement believes that building a future Syria requires a conscious, healthy, and cohesive society, starting with the simplest behaviors that protect people and preserve their dignity. Handwashing is not just a daily act; it is an expression of respect for oneself and others, and a belief that prevention is a collective responsibility.
