An Overview of Gender-based Violence in Syria (Advocacy Brief, 2023)

More than 12 years since its onset, the Syria crisis remains one of the world’s worst and longest humanitarian situations, one that is placing the lives, dignity, and futures of millions at risk. For women and girls, the impact has been severe. Ongoing conflicts, a spiralling economic crisis, unprecedented food and staple shortages, and the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have converged to exacerbate gender-based violence, affecting their coping strategies and depleting their resilience, making humanitarian resources and programming both critical and life-saving.

This advocacy brief provides a snapshot of gender-based violence in Syria as the country prepares for yet another difficult year. The brief offers a closer look at affected populations, the types of gender-based violence taking place, and the risks of GBV in other sectors, in addition to a series of recommendations for donors, humanitarians, and GBV actors.