Syria and Middle East: Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Turkiye
For over a decade, Switzerland has been delivering life-saving assistance to the people of Syria and neighbouring countries. Over time, Switzerland has broadened its engagement, working on systemic issues to promote greater stability and prosperity in the region.
Context
The conflict that began in Syria in 2011 triggered one of the world’s largest humanitarian and displacement crises, displacing millions of people within Syria and across borders. Switzerland responded rapidly with a coordinated regional approach that grew into one of its largest humanitarian operations. The political changes that occurred in Syria late 2024 have opened new possibilities and the prospect for an inclusive system of governance and economic recovery. At the same time, millions of people continue to depend on humanitarian aid and existing vulnerabilities are exacerbated by emerging threats, such as climate change. In response to this evolving context, Switzerland is adapting its approach to support the political transition in Syria, and the socio-economic development of the region while maintaining life-saving assistance to the most vulnerable populations.
Focus areas
The 2026–2029 Cooperation Programme follows a whole-of-government approach bringing together humanitarian, development, peace and migration instruments. It is structured around four mutually reinforcing priority areas and covers five countries: Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq and Türkiye.
Human development
After years of conflict and displacement, humanitarian needs in the region remain high. Switzerland continues to support access to basic services for the most vulnerable people, including protection, civil documentation and education in emergency. Drawing on its expertise, Switzerland is promoting inclusive access to schooling for displaced and marginalised children, with a particular focus on gender equality.
Economic development
The political transition in Syria and the evolving regional context have created opportunities for economic recovery and job creation. Switzerland is mobilising its expertise in vocational training, entrepreneurship, and small business development to strengthen livelihoods. In the region, Swiss engagement promotes market-relevant skills and the involvement of private sector actors, while contributing to long-term solutions for displaced persons, such as income-generating opportunities and capacity building.
Climate and environment
Climate change, water scarcity and environmental degradation are accelerating across an already water-stressed region. Building on its long-standing expertise in water governance and management, Switzerland is promoting the sustainable use and provision of water resources, as well as strengthening the capacities of local service providers. Swiss support also works towards mitigating the risks associated with climate change, such as droughts and floods, and advances cooperation on transboundary water governance through a regional initiative.
Peace and good governance
Geopolitical tensions, fragile institutions and a fragmented social fabric continue to undermine regional stability and peace. Switzerland encourages inclusive dialogue, trust-building and reconciliation at national and local levels, engaging with a wide range of local actors. The current political transition in Syria offers renewed opportunities to engage with interim authorities and civil society in activities related to governance and peacebuilding, including transitional justice, conflict prevention, and the protection of civilians.
Approach and partners
Switzerland’s approach combines regional initiatives with national and local programming. The work is carried out with a range of actors including the interim authorities, civil society, the private sector and other strategic partners, prioritising locally led solutions where possible and national ownership. The regional programme has an indicative overall budget of CHF 243 million for the period 2026–2029. The downloadable documents below provide comprehensive information on the Cooperation Programme for 2026 – 2029 and Switzerland’s country-specific engagement.
Contact
Eichenweg 5
3003 Bern