In February 2025, DEMAC conducted a field visit to Damascus, Syria, engaging with local and diaspora-led humanitarian organizations to strengthen coordination and enhance response efforts. Against the backdrop of a fragile and unpredictable situation in Syria, following the fall of Assad regime, this visit provided an opportunity to assess current needs, exchange knowledge, and explore ways to reinforce diaspora engagement in relief efforts.

Diaspora Organizations: A Key Humanitarian Actor

One of the key takeaways from the visit was the critical role of Syrian diaspora organizations in providing essential aid. Many diaspora groups have been instrumental in mobilizing resources, supporting local NGOs, and ensuring that humanitarian assistance reaches those most in need. Their transnational networks, access to alternative funding sources, and deep understanding of the Syrian context make them a vital yet often overlooked humanitarian actor.

During the visit, DEMAC met with both local and diaspora organizations to discuss ongoing challenges and opportunities for closer collaboration. These conversations highlighted the need for improved coordination mechanisms between diaspora actors and the broader humanitarian system to ensure more effective and sustainable aid delivery.

Capacity Building for a Stronger Response

A key component of the visit was a training session conducted in partnership with the Abjad Initiative (diaspora-led) and Sanad for Development (local organization). The session, titled “Basics of Livelihoods and Minimum Economic Recovery Standards (MERS),” provided practical insights for over 20 youth staff and volunteers, emphasizing the need for sustained capacity-building efforts for both local and diaspora humanitarian actors.

Looking Ahead

The fall of the Assad regime in Syria in December 2024 marked the end of a thirteen-year civil war, a conflict that profoundly reshaped the country’s humanitarian landscape and displaced millions. As international NGOs, diaspora organizations, and local civil society groups begin to return and scale up their efforts in Syria, the humanitarian response remains fragmented, presenting challenges in coordination and resource allocation.

The Syrian diaspora has been and continues to play a pivotal role in humanitarian aid, advocacy, and funding. This field visit reinforced the critical need for stronger diaspora inclusion in humanitarian coordination and emphasized DEMAC’s commitment to bridging the gap between diaspora-led initiatives and the international humanitarian system. Moving forward, DEMAC will continue to advocate for better coordination, support knowledge-sharing efforts, and facilitate stronger engagement between key stakeholders to ensure a more effective and sustainable humanitarian response.