Denmark has decided to increase its humanitarian aid to Syria by an additional 332 million Danish kroner, bringing the total support to 651 million Danish kroner. This decision comes in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the country, which has been worsened by both conflict and natural disasters. According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Denmark has already provided significant support to the civilian population in Syria and to refugees in neighboring countries, but this new package is meant to ensure continued help and assistance to the most vulnerable.
Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy, Dan Jørgensen, emphasizes the importance of keeping the focus on Syria despite the many new conflicts around the world. “It is important that we do not forget Syria, as it is one of the worst situations on the planet,” says Dan Jørgensen. “Syria used to be at the top of the agenda, but the new conflicts in the world have made it so that there is more competition for funds.” The increased support will be directed towards healthcare services and education for children, with a special focus on protecting women and children from gender-based violence and rape.
“There will be a special focus on protecting women and children. Women are subjected to gender-based violence and rape, and that is of course completely unacceptable,” explains the minister. Denmark collaborates closely with various UN agencies to ensure that the aid reaches the right recipients and does not end up in the wrong hands.
On May 27th, Denmark will officially announce its commitment to support at the annual Syria conference in Brussels, where they hope to inspire other nations to also increase their contributions. “Unfortunately, things are not going in the right direction in Syria. That is why we also hope that the Danish contribution will motivate others to give more money. We hope that other countries will step up, because there is a need for it,” concludes Dan Jørgensen.