Syrian Civil Society Organizations: Reality and Challenges

About 

This research study was commissioned by Citizens For Syria (now IMPACT); an NFP based in Germany that works on civil society research and development in Syria and neighbouring countries.  

This publication is a pre-LUGARIT work by our expert Zedoun Al-Zoubi.

Summary

This research study focuses on Syrian civil society organizations (CSOs), providing a comprehensive analysis of these organizations' current state and the factors influencing their operation and development. 


Post-2011, Syrian civil society witnessed a significant growth of CSOs. These organizations emerged for various reasons, including addressing violence-related issues, documenting violations, providing relief, and creating job opportunities for youth, particularly in neighboring countries. These CSOs began forming networks and alliances for advocacy and coordinated responses. 


The study categorizes Syrian civil society into three divisions: organizations operating in government-controlled territories, those in areas controlled by armed opposition, and those in autonomous administration areas (North-eastern Syria).  The study explores various aspects of Syrian CSOs, including their organizational structures, financial mechanisms, operational challenges, and their role in the broader context of Syrian society and politics. The research is aimed at understanding the dynamics and impact of these organizations within the complex socio-political landscape of Syria.


The study then provides recommendations for Syrian CSOs on improving governance, transparency, diversity, inclusion, financial independence, community engagement, and coordination with local authorities.  The research also includes recommendations to international supporters on kinds of support, fair distribution, policy formulation, networking, language barriers, legal and financial facilitation.   

Publication 

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Publisher 

Citizens For Syria 


Date

March 2017


Credits

Zedoun Al-Zoubi >

Header Photo

A child carries an aid parcel as displaced Syrians from Tabqa and Raqa, who fled the fighting between the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and Islamist State group jihadists. April 6, 2017.  Photo © DELIL SOULEIMAN/AFP - via Getty Images.  Link >