On March 17, 2025, the Aga Khan pledged €100 million to support Syria’s urgent humanitarian and development needs during a conference co-hosted by the EU. This support focuses on enhancing healthcare, education, renewable energy, and preserving cultural assets amidst the backdrop of a severe humanitarian crisis that has left much of the population in poverty.
On March 17, 2025, His Highness the Aga Khan, Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, made a significant commitment during the European Commission’s ninth annual conference focused on Syria. On behalf of the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), he pledged a minimum of €100 million over the next two years to support Syria’s urgent humanitarian and developmental needs. The conference aimed to galvanize international support for an inclusive and Syrian-led transition towards recovery.
In his inaugural public address as the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, His Highness detailed various initiatives funded by the pledged amount. These initiatives include scaling up humanitarian efforts, investing in renewable energy, enhancing healthcare and education, combating food insecurity, and preserving Syria’s cultural heritage. He highlighted the necessity for an end to violence and a commitment to peace for these goals to be realized. His Highness expressed hope that the emerging Syrian government would champion a pluralistic and inclusive governance structure.
The conference was co-hosted by high-ranking EU officials, including Kaja Kallas, the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs, Dubravka Śuica, the EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, and Hadja Lahbib, the Commissioner for Equality. The event attracted a diverse audience, including Syria’s Interim Foreign Minister, UN representatives, and regional partners, building on the outcomes of the Paris Conference held the previous month.
His Highness engaged in discussions with multiple dignitaries at the conference, including Syria’s Interim Foreign Minister and various UN officials. AKDN, which has operated in Syria for over 25 years, has pivoted its efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis, which has left over 80% of the population in poverty due to war and sanctions. Access to clean water and health facilities has drastically deteriorated, with millions of children out of school.
AKDN collaborates with local and international partners, utilizing a dedicated workforce of 780 staff members in Syria and a volunteer network to address these pressing issues. This includes providing essential services such as humanitarian assistance, healthcare, education, and microfinance. As Syria’s situation evolves, the organization aims to seize opportunities to foster resilience and support social cohesion across the country.
The significant pledge of €100 million by the Ismaili Imamat signals a strong commitment to Syria’s recovery and development amidst ongoing challenges. The focus on humanitarian aid, education, and healthcare highlights the critical need for support in a country facing devastating socio-economic conditions. The collaborative efforts of AKDN and international partners are essential in overcoming the humanitarian crisis, supporting the transition toward a more inclusive government, and restoring hope to the Syrian people.
Original Source: the.akdn
