Northern Syria remains an extremely fragile setting with continuous challenges in the provision of humanitarian assistance including healthcare. An increase in unmet needs among communities is observed along with a decrease in funding and international support. This project answered a call from UOSSM (Union of Medical Care and Relief Organizations) France [opens new tab], a French/Syrian organization operating in Northern Syria, to explore more sustainable and long-term approaches to health service provision by engaging (or not) the private sector in the provision of health services. Researchers from Queen Margaret University, in collaboration with ReBUILD for Resilience and MIDMAR [opens new tab], are exploring the opportunities and barriers to an efficient provision of equitable quality services by engaging with the private sector. In addition to knowledge generation, this research will inform health actors in the Syrian conflict zone about best practices to serve communities during this crisis and beyond.
This research was conducted November 2021 – April 2022, the results of which are being presented in two phases.
Image: A doctor at an International Rescue Committee clinic in Ramtha, northern Jordan, conducts a check-up on a young Syrian refugee. DfID via Flickr [opens new tab]