As the conflict in Syria continues into its 11th year, Palestinian and Syrian families across the country are facing unprecedented levels of poverty and food insecurity.Â
A Palestinian refugee called Fatma, a resident of Deraa Camp, south of Syria, told AGPS that her family, including her disabled brothers, are struggling to put food on their tables today than ever before.
“An egg dish costs 12,000 Syrian pounds while jams are sold at 4,000”, said Fatma. “A small butter box costs up to 4,000; A cheese box is estimated at 7,000 and halva (Middle Eastern sesame candy) at 13,000.
Fatma said years of conflict, displacement, soaring food prices and a decline in the value of the Syrian Pound have put additional pressure on families who are now struggling to afford the basics.
Large-scale hostilities and mass displacement across Syria, combined with a severe economic downturn, mean that the overall food security situation is rapidly deteriorating across the country, and families require support to meet their needs and rebuild their lives.
The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that 12.4 million Syrians are now food insecure. This is an increase of 4.5 million in the last year alone and the highest number ever recorded.Â
Syria’s continuous crisis has depleted community assets, erased livelihoods and eroded household and community resilience. Food systems have been severely disrupted across many areas, leading to widespread food insecurity and the need for food assistance to fight hunger and malnutrition.