Toronto, February 8, 2016 Save the Children welcomes today’s federal government announcement on its new plan to address the crises in Syria, Iraq, and surrounding regions. This comprehensive approach to a complex problem is in keeping with Canada’s goal of working constructively with stakeholders and local partners to build real solutions that will last.

Save the Children applauds the decision for Canada to step up its diplomatic and development engagement in this area, but ultimately the only durable solution to this crisis situation is a political one. There are millions of Syrians who have been displaced from their homes, some remaining in the country and many more who have been forced to flee to surrounding regions. They are in desperate need of our help. Countries near Syria who welcomed refugees are now themselves at a crisis point; Canada’s decision to address the humanitarian needs in Iraq, Lebanon, and Jordan is a positive step in the right direction. The immediate humanitarian requirements of food, water, shelter, healthcare and dignity must be provided; while longer-term needs such as access to educational opportunities and livelihood options for caregivers and youth cannot be forgotten.

Save the Children has been responding to the Syria crisis from its beginning. At the recent Supporting Syria and the Region conference held in London last week, we revealed a new analysis that shows that since the conflict started in March, 2011, an average of 3,245 children have been forced to flee their homes every single day. The total number of children who are now displaced, either within Syria or as refugees in the region, now stands at 5.8 million. While children continue to be at risk in Syria and face the daunting challenges of displacement, Save the Children will continue our efforts to ensure that their rights are protected and needs are met.