Humanitarian situation worsens in northeast Syria, says Doctors Without Borders
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported on Thursday that humanitarian challenges in northeast Syria continue, with growing needs among the local population.
In its assessment conducted in June, MSF said residents of northeast Syria face significant difficulties accessing healthcare, water, and food due to high costs, a shortage of operating clinics, and limited mobility.
The evaluation focused on Hasakah Governorate, where MSF teams interviewed more than 150 families, including both residents and displaced persons. The assessment found that 90 percent of participants had postponed or avoided healthcare due to high consultation and medication costs, lack of nearby or functioning facilities, and travel difficulties.
MSF highlighted that water scarcity disproportionately affects women, forcing them to face exhaustion, harassment, and exploitation while attempting to collect water.
The organization also reported widespread economic vulnerability, noting that the average household income in the area is $150 per month, ranging from $15 to $200. Low-income families frequently struggle to access sufficient food; 77 percent of surveyed households reported food shortages multiple times per month.
In response, MSF called on donors, humanitarian agencies, and local authorities to increase funding and coordination to prevent further suffering.
Barbara Hysel, MSF’s Program Director in northeast Syria, said, “The crisis in northeast Syria is not limited to the conflict itself; it is tied to the daily erosion of people’s ability to survive with dignity. These numbers highlight the worsening humanitarian situation.”