Syria needs analysis project: relief actors in Syria

This thematic report outlines the diverse range of actors
currently working within Syria to provide humanitarian
assistance. For the purpose of this report, assistance
refers to all types of support given to people in need.
The report provides an overview of the different groups
of actors, their characteristics, capacity and limitations.
The Syria Needs Analysis Project welcomes all
information that could complement this report.

Type of relief actors: Over 9 million people are estimated to be in urgent need of
humanitarian assistance in Syria and a multitude of actors, from widely different
backgrounds, and with a variety of capacities and motives, currently seek to
address their needs. While most media attention is focused on the assistance
provided by international actors, much of the support for those in need comes from
the Syrian population itself, through communities, the diaspora or local
organisations. The Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) and local relief providers
form the backbone of the humanitarian effort and distribute the largest share of
assistance to those in need. Many relief actors focus on the provision of food and
healthcare with few actors providing assistance in the shelter and protection
sectors. In addition, the capacity of most CBOs for post-conflict reconstruction and
development is very low, limiting (future) reconstruction and rehabilitation.
In areas controlled by the GoS, the traditional state structures helped by newly
formed popular committees provide services, albeit with limitations due to the
conflict. In areas not under GoS control, formal and informal structures have been
established to provide services such as solid waste collection and education.
These structures also provide assistance, where possible, primarily in the form of
health service provision and food and fuel distributions. In some areas, the
community has established the structures itself, while in other areas assistance is
provided and coordinated by systems established by the Syrian National Coalition
or (some) other opposition groups. The different structures operate alongside
each other, although often with limited cooperation and at time in competition with
one another. Some armed groups are also involved in the provision of assistance
and provide security and relief services in areas under their control. The security
context and the group controlling an area may influence who provides and who
receives assistance.