March 15, 2022
News
The civil war in Syria has been a harsh reality for the people there since 2011. Some of them left the country, but most of them left their homes but remain in Syria as internally displaced persons. Local civil society organizations focus, among other things, on humanitarian aid and development. Caritas Czech Republic has decided to support their efforts with a new project funded by the European Commission.
Support for 30 civil society organisations
The number of CSOs in northwest Syria has increased in recent years, but they often lack the technical and managerial skills to successfully lead their teams and contribute to the development of the region. Caritas Czech Republic has launched a project with local organisation Violet to support them. The main aim is to provide assistance for the work of 30 NGOs in Idlib and Azaz, located in the north-western parts of Syria.
We will introduce the local organization a modern work in the non-profit sector, including the lessons learned strategy, orientation in the international legal system, but also effective operation set-up.
This two-year project also includes the announcement of 15 grants worth a total of €150,000 (or more than CZK 3.5 million). Organisations with the best proposals for specific support to local communities will be awarded.
Inclusion of young people and disadvantaged groups
Young people represent a significant proportion of the overall Syrian population. Their active engagement in civil society organisations is strong. Therefore, the project focuses on young volunteers, women and other disadvantaged groups. Caritas Czech Republic will support 500 volunteers, including at least 200 women.
Supporting young people is one of our long-term goals. They often face a lack of work experience and places where they can develop their skills. The absence of facilities and opportunities calls for a stronger approach so that young people can build society accordingly to their principles.
The situation in Syria is still not improving
The civil war in Syria has been going on for 11 years. The situation is still not stable, and more than 6 million people have already left the country. Another nearly 7 million remain displaced in different parts of Syria. We help them to improve their living conditions to support their future prospects. Caritas Czech Republic believes that non-profit organizations are the pillars of the society and they have the power to make significant changes in the community.
The project "Empowering civil society in Northwest Syria" is run by Caritas Czech Republic and the local non-profit organization Violet with financial support from the European Commission.
