The Syrian Future Movement notes with grave concern the significant impact of declining international funding for the health sector in Syria, according to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO). As stated by the Acting WHO Representative in Syria, Christina Bethke, on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, approximately 417 health facilities have been affected by reduced support, with 366 of them ceasing or reducing services. This has impacted access to basic healthcare for 7.4 million people, with hospitals operating at only 58% capacity.
The Syrian Future Movement believes these indicators reflect a real gap between international support and actual needs, and underscore the urgent need to shift funding from short-term emergency aid to sustainable investment in health infrastructure and human capital. The health sector is a fundamental economic and strategic element, directly impacting the workforce, future productivity, and societal stability.
The Syrian Future Movement points out that the chronic shortage of medicines, equipment, and operational facilities represents a significant economic burden and threatens the ability to provide vital services. Furthermore, the continued funding gap could lead to outbreaks of chronic and epidemic diseases, thus increasing long-term costs, exacerbating social tensions, and complicating reconstruction and sustainable development efforts.
Therefore, the Syrian Future Movement calls for:
- Strengthening sustainable international funding for the health sector, with a focus on rehabilitating infrastructure and supporting medical personnel.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution of health resources by the transitional government to prevent any misuse or misappropriation.
- Encouraging cooperation between the public and civil sectors to enhance emergency response and provide integrated healthcare services.
- Linking the stability of the health sector to the return of refugees and internally displaced persons, as a prerequisite for restoring economic and social activity in Syria.
The Syrian Future Movement affirms that investing in health is an investment in Syria’s future and an integral part of the transitional state’s strategies for building a cohesive and stable society that protects citizens’ rights and ensures a successful transition towards a just and effective state with functioning institutions.
