The World Bank has approved a major financing package to address Syria’s critical water challenges, with $150 million specifically allocated to restoring water supply and sanitation systems across the country. The initiative forms part of a broader $225 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA) aimed at improving essential public services for millions of Syrians.
After more than a decade of conflict, Syria’s water sector faces severe disruption. Over half of the country’s water supply infrastructure has been damaged, alongside approximately 70% of wastewater treatment facilities. As a result, water availability has dropped significantly, with supply levels estimated to be about 40% lower than before the conflict. Today, more than half of the population lacks adequate access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services, while per capita water availability has fallen below 700 cubic meters per year—well under internationally recognized scarcity thresholds.
The newly approved Syria Emergency Water Security and Resilient Services Project will prioritize the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure in densely populated and conflict-affected areas. Planned interventions include restoring bulk water supply systems and wastewater treatment facilities in key regions such as Idlib, Homs, and Hama. In addition, sanitation improvements in Damascus aim to reduce environmental pollution and enhance public health conditions.
Beyond immediate repairs, the project incorporates a forward-looking approach to resilience. Measures include climate-proofing infrastructure, conducting dam safety assessments, and strengthening water and climate data systems to support more effective resource management in the future.
As Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Division Director for the Middle East, stated: "Restoring physical infrastructure and resuming the delivery of essential public services are key pillars of Syria’s Statement of National Priorities."
The project is expected to play a central role in stabilizing water service delivery, supporting vulnerable populations, and laying the groundwork for long-term recovery in Syria’s water sector.
