Missing Link: The centrality of protection in early recovery in Syria

This policy paper addresses the critical need for integrating protection principles into early recovery programming in Syria. Following the fall of the Syrian government in December 2024, the paper highlights the persistent protection risks exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, economic decline, and inadequate public services. It emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach that combines humanitarian aid with resilience-building efforts, focusing on the protection of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The paper calls for enhanced coordination among humanitarian actors, increased funding for early recovery, and active engagement with the new governing authorities to ensure sustainable and effective recovery for Syrian communities.