Health in Syria-Amidst Conflict
- swanahealthuci
- Oct 23, 2024
- 2 min read
Background
The ongoing instability in Syria can be attributed to long-standing political and economic issues, particularly under the authoritarian leadership of Bashar al-Assad, son of Hafiz Assad. Extreme poverty and a lack of government support triggered protests in 2011, escalating into a full-fledged civil war that drew in multiple foreign nations. Today, Syria is facing the world’s largest refugee crisis, with 14 million Syrians forced to flee their homes and 7.2 million internally displaced. The everyday reality for many Syrians includes a severe shortage of basic human needs, even for those living in relatively stable areas.
Weaponization of Health
Much of what is discussed in the journal post is Adapted from Maia Tarnas's article, "Politicization of Water, Humanitarian Response, and Health in Syria as a Contributor to the Ongoing Cholera Outbreak," which can be found in our journal as well. The intersection of conflict and health is critical, as the weaponization and politicization of health infrastructure have contributed to numerous infectious disease outbreaks. International Humanitarian Law prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure, yet health facilities in Syria have been targeted, and the criminalization of healthcare has become prevalent. This weaponization of health involves depriving populations of essential healthcare, leading to increased vulnerability. For instance, the deliberate attacks on water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure exacerbate the situation by heightening the risk of infectious diseases, including cholera and dysentery.
Cholera, often viewed as a barometer of public health due to its preventability and treatability, serves as an indicator of broader governance issues, such as poverty and weak infrastructure. During the recent cholera outbreak in Syria, Russia's use of UN veto power hindered the delivery of crucial aid, demonstrating the extent to which politics can obstruct humanitarian efforts. Furthermore, the conflict has led to a degradation of water quality and quantity, increasing reliance on private and informal water providers, further compounding health risks. The provision of care in Syria is deeply challenged by the exodus of healthcare workers, fragmented health systems, and a lack of essential supplies. While chronic health issues like diabetes and cancer persist, the immediate focus has shifted to managing trauma-induced care. Despite these challenges, the resistance of those who remain is evident as they strive to support their communities. It is crucial to advocate for understanding the root causes of this crisis. Supporting non-governmental organizations such as Islamic Relief USA can provide critical assistance to those affected by these dire circumstances.
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