The Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) has finalized a comprehensive development project for two residential villages in Idlib, Syria, providing crucial infrastructure and furnishings for internally displaced people (IDPs). The initiative, focused on establishing stable housing in Syria, moves residents away from temporary tent shelters and towards more permanent, dignified living conditions. Completed in early 2024, the project addresses fundamental needs for water, sanitation, and community facilities within the region.
The QRCS project, located in the heavily impacted Idlib Governorate, included the installation of a sustainable water source and the furnishing of homes, schools, and religious spaces. This builds on earlier phases focused on the physical construction of the villages, offering a more holistic approach to supporting the displaced population. The goal is to enhance self-sufficiency and improve the overall quality of life for thousands of Syrian families.
Improving Living Conditions with Sustainable Housing in Syria
The final phase of the QRCS project centered on establishing a reliable water supply. A deep borehole was constructed, complete with a solar-powered pumping system, a substantial water tower, and a dedicated distribution network, ensuring access to potable water for all residents in an environmentally responsible manner. This addresses a critical vulnerability faced by IDPs, who often struggle with limited or contaminated water resources.
Beyond water access, considerable effort was invested in equipping the villages for daily life. Six hundred apartments received essential furniture, while two schools were furnished with classroom supplies, fostering educational opportunities for children. The project also included equipping two mosques, with designated areas for women, and providing recreational spaces for children.
Focus on Community Wellbeing
Recognizing the importance of a healthy environment, the QRCS incorporated sanitation infrastructure into the project. Solar streetlights were installed to improve safety and visibility throughout the villages, while waste containers were distributed to promote public hygiene. These additions aim to minimize the risk of disease and create a more welcoming atmosphere for residents.
The project’s impact extends beyond basic necessities; it also stimulates local economic activity. According to QRCS reports, the construction and furnishing process created employment opportunities for beneficiary families, contributing to their socioeconomic stability. This emphasis on livelihood support is crucial for long-term recovery in the war-torn region.
The Idlib villages represent a significant component of QRCS’s broader commitment to shelter programs in Syria. To date, the organization has constructed and developed 15 residential villages across the country, providing a total of 3,498 housing units. These villages collectively shelter more than 58,000 individuals displaced by the ongoing Syrian conflict, demonstrating the scale of the humanitarian need and QRCS’s substantial response. The ongoing Syrian civil war, now in its thirteenth year, has created one of the largest displacement crises globally and requires sustained international aid.
Funding for the projects comes directly from QRCS’s humanitarian budget, alongside donations from private and public sources within Qatar. Qatar Red Crescent Society has been a key player in providing humanitarian assistance to Syria since the start of the conflict, focusing on critical areas such as healthcare, food security, and education, in addition to shelter solutions for displaced populations.
Addressing the challenge of Syrian displacement requires a multifaceted approach. While providing physical structures like these villages is crucial, equally important are initiatives focusing on healthcare, education, and livelihoods to support long-term recovery and resilience. Moreover, this project underscores the benefits of incorporating renewable energy sources, like solar power, into humanitarian infrastructure.
Looking ahead, QRCS is evaluating the impact of the completed villages and plans to continue monitoring the needs of the residents. Further phases of development may be considered based on ongoing assessments and available funding, with potential expansions to include vocational training centers or improved healthcare facilities. The long-term sustainability of these projects remains a primary concern, and QRCS will likely collaborate with local partners to ensure ongoing maintenance and community ownership.
