Dear colleagues,

We would have all watched with horror as the news broke of the devasting earthquakes in Syria and Türkiye, and immediately thought as I did – what can we do to help? As the death toll climbs, my thoughts and solidarity are with those who have lost loved ones, their homes and their livelihoods.

Within 24 hours of the earthquake the Syrian Family Planning Association, responded by assisting in the evacuation process, getting people to safety. Two of their clinics have been damaged, but no staff has been harmed. SFPA is currently applying for stream 3 funding to ensure continued access to SRH during the aftermath of the earthquake. There are also immediate needs such as food, shelter and warm clothing and are looking at ways we can assist SFPA in procuring those. 

Due to years of war and sanctions, the already fragile and strained Syrian healthcare system will be under further pressure and risks neglecting the SRH needs of women, girls and marginalized groups. SFPA will is looking at ways to increase its mobile outreach and to maximize its clinic capacity to ensure SRH needs are taken care of during this crisis.

The individual giving team is also in the process of launching an emergency fundraising appeal to help raise much-needed funds.

We do not currently have an MA in Türkiye, but have identified a potential partner – HERA – to support their SRHR response. 

I’d like to express my immense gratitude to the Syrian MA and staff who have faced a number of challenges over the years but despite this, continue to deliver to women, girls and those often left behind. Thanks also to the humanitarian, Europe, AWRO, Comms and other teams who mobilised quickly and have been working tirelessly.

In solidarity,

Alvaro