The European Commission announced a special measure to support Syrian population and refugees. The special measure amounts to a total of €23 million and its focus will be put on projects implemented by partners with a solid track record in the country and in the region.

The European Commission adopted a special measure for Syria, under the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI) to enable a rapid, simple response to the most pressing needs of the Syrian population and Syrian refugees. The special measure amounts to a total of €23 million. EU Commissioner for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, Štefan Füle, stressed that the decision will significantly strengthen a solid financial basis and a flexible tool for quick and effective support to help the Syrians most in need.

With regard to this deteriorating situation in this country, the EU remains committed to continuing and increasing its support to the Syrian population in every way possible, says the Commission. According to an estimate of the United Nations (UN), this situation has until now led to approximately 1 million displaced people including, over 40,000 refugees. In addition, with Syria entering the second year of civil unrest, life for the population has become ever more difficult, with no obvious solution in sight.

The special measure will complement the €10 million funding of humanitarian projects already undertaken by the European Commission in Syria and in the countries hosting Syrian refugees. In particular will help to respond to the crisis situation in Syria itself and in areas affected by the influx of refugees in neighbouring Lebanon and Jordan.