The European Union, contributes EUR 14.5 million to support children in Syria through UNICEF-led multi-sector response

Damascus, 16 October 2025 – The European Union has contributed EUR 14.5 million to UNICEF in 2025 to scale up humanitarian interventions in child protection, education, nutrition, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) – reaching some of the country’s most vulnerable children, including in camps.

“Children in Syria have a right to safety, dignity, and the chance to learn. Our partnership with UNICEF focuses on impact where it matters most – at family and community level,” said Michelle Čičić, the European Union Humanitarian Aid Head of Office in Syria. “Children in Syria have endured more than any child should. The EU’s support reflects our continued commitment to ensure no child is left behind.”

Nearly fourteen years of conflict have left Syria in crisis. Families are grappling with poverty, displacement, and a difficult economic situation.

“This contribution comes at a turning point in Syria’s history, as families navigate the compounded effects of conflict, displacement, and economic difficulties,” said Zeinab Adam, UNICEF Acting Representative in Syria. “The European Union’s continued support is not only generous – it is essential. It allows us to provide joined-up, multi-sectoral support that addresses both immediate needs and longer-term protection for children and their families.”

Through the Directorate-General for ECHO’s renewed support, UNICEF is able to:

• Provide cash support to vulnerable families with children, helping them meet essential needs, including food and nutrition.
• Strengthen the protection of children from serious rights violations through effective monitoring, engagement with relevant actors, and the provision of quality child protection services.
• Expand access to inclusive education, including for adolescent girls and children with disabilities, through safe learning spaces.
• Combat life-threatening wasting by increasing early detection, treatment access, and post-recovery support to reduce relapse.
• Improve access to clean water and sanitation for children and families living in communities, camps, and informal settlements.

The Syria programme for children takes a holistic approach, ensuring they are safe, nourished, learning, and protected. The humanitarian–development nexus is where real change happens, immediate relief meets long-term vision through sustainable progress for children and their families.

The European Union remains one of UNICEF’s key humanitarian partners in Syria. Together, both agencies are committed to delivering life-saving assistance and creating pathways to a safer, healthier future for Syria’s children.