During his visit to Gaziantep, the EU Chargé d’affaires a.i. to Syria, Dan Stoenescu, announced a new commitment of over 4 million euros in funding to the White Helmets, a key organisation for civil defence in Syria. This marks another significant step in the European Union’s ongoing efforts to alleviate the devastating impact of the earthquakes that hit Northern Syria in February 2023. The earthquakes exacerbated pre-existing challenges in the region which has already suffered from more than a decade of armed conflict and socio-economic instability. In addition to a significant loss of human lives, they caused significant physical and psychological damages.

The financial support from the European Union will focus on addressing the challenges faced by the affected communities in Aleppo and Idleb. The project aims to enhance community resilience through rubble management and infrastructural improvements, including water and sanitation networks in camps and local communities. In addition, the project will offer critical support to women by providing access to physiotherapy and psychosocial services, thereby alleviating the long-term psychological and physical impacts of the earthquake. Furthermore, the initiative is dedicated to safeguarding children by rehabilitating schools and enhancing health and safety conditions, to ensure a more conducive learning environment.

The EU Chargé d’affaires a.i. to Syria, Dan Stoenescu, said: "The White Helmets have developed a unique experience in civil defence in Syria and established solid coordination mechanisms and community trust. This project aims primarily to reduce the destructive impact of the recent earthquake. It will empower communities to recover, prepare for future challenges, and, most importantly, to foster a sense of peace and security. The European Union continues to stand in solidarity with the Syrian people."