WHO warns of potential collapse of Syria’s health system

The WHO cautioned about the widening “transitional funding gap” in Syria’s health sector, as the country moves from an emergency phase to a recovery phase, warning that the consequences could lead to a collapse of the health system.

In a press conference held via video from Geneva, the organization stated that this gap is due to a decline in humanitarian funding and the unpreparedness of national systems to fully assume responsibilities, with the impact measured by the number of patients deprived of care.

A WHO official reported that 417 health facilities in Syria have been affected by funding cuts since mid-year, while 366 facilities have had their operations suspended or reduced.

Christina Bethke, Acting WHO Representative in Syria, speaking via video from Damascus at a UN press briefing in Geneva, said: “Already, 7.4 million people have experienced reduced access to medicines and treatment.”

She noted that funding cuts over just two months resulted in 210,000 medical referrals not being made, 122,000 trauma consultations missed, 13,700 births without qualified medical assistance, and 89,000 people deprived of mental health consultations.

Bethke added: “Only 58% of hospitals and 23% of primary healthcare centers are operating at full capacity, and chronic shortages of medicines, electricity, and equipment make services fragile.”

The UN official warned that drought, unsafe water, and poor sanitation exacerbate the spread of cholera, leishmaniasis, lice, and scabies, while electricity shortages threaten cold chain systems, water pumping, and hospital operations.

She confirmed that about 3 million people live in areas lacking medicines, staff, and infrastructure, increasing pressure on an already weak health system, noting that WHO’s 2025 appeal amounts to $141.5 million, with a funding gap of $77 million as of October.

Bethke stated: “Without expected, multi-year support, the health system could collapse just as recovery becomes within reach,” adding that “maintaining health services today is a bridge to Syria’s recovery tomorrow.”

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ANHA