The Norwegian Refugee Council’s recent market assessment indicates that local Syrian markets are unprepared for a potential surge in returning workers, following years of conflict. Despite some policy reforms, ongoing economic challenges hinder recovery, with many families struggling to meet basic needs. Increased aid and investments in local enterprises are essential for fostering stability and supporting displaced populations, particularly as Ramadan approaches.
A recent market assessment by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) indicates that local markets in Syria are ill-prepared to accommodate a potential surge in workers, particularly if displaced individuals return from abroad and within the country. The study was conducted with large and medium-sized companies across regions such as Rural Damascus, Daraa, Aleppo, Homs, and Hama, revealing a decline in production and trading activities since the previous government’s fall. This stagnation persists despite policy changes aimed at fostering trade, such as reduced transportation fees and improved commercial flow across regions.
Federico Jachetti, NRC’s Syria Country Office Director, highlights that although prices have shown signs of improvement, a critical liquidity crisis persists in the markets. He stated, “Despite the relative improvement in prices over recent months, Syrian markets are suffering from a liquidity crisis and purchasing power that has reached rock-bottom levels.” He emphasized the need for investments to support small businesses and job creation, particularly in reconstructing vital infrastructure.
As Ramadan approaches, NRC found that families estimate their monthly expenses on food, rent, and utilities to be around 3 million Syrian pounds, equivalent to about 300 US dollars. This increment is largely attributed to currency fluctuations and market volatility. Mohammed, an electrician assisted by NRC, expressed the economic strain: “If you sold 10 light bulbs and went back to the market to replenish, you would only get three or four pieces for the same price.” Many families remain dependent on remittances from relatives overseas due to job scarcity.
Moreover, those who have returned from displacement and residents of camps report that reductions in aid, including food rations, have severely impacted their livelihoods. While general food prices have decreased in recent months, bread prices surged to eight times last year’s levels following subsidy cuts, as reported by the UN. Mona, a camp resident, lamented, “The only way for us to survive is to rely on aid from people. We wouldn’t have stayed here if we had a home to go back to.”
Ahead of the ninth Brussels Conference on March 17, the NRC urges the international community to enhance support for displaced Syrians and those returning home. Jachetti emphasized, “There is a need for both urgent relief and support, to ensure the long-term self-reliance of Syrians who are keen to reclaim their futures.”
In their efforts to support displaced Syrians, the NRC provides essential services such as water supply, shelter, education, and legal assistance. They are also involved in rehabilitating civilian infrastructure and offer programs for skills development and business grants to promote entrepreneurial ventures among Syrians. This comprehensive support is crucial for fostering economic stability and independence in the affected regions.
The Norwegian Refugee Council’s market assessment sheds light on the dire economic conditions faced by Syrian families as they strive to recover from years of conflict. With local markets struggling to adjust to potential influxes of workers and rising living costs exerting financial pressure on households, the need for international aid and investment in local businesses is essential. Supporting displaced Syrians in their quest for self-reliance and restoring critical infrastructure remains a critical focus of humanitarian efforts.
Original Source: www.nrc.no
