CAFOD joins call for end to war in Syria

As part of the #WithSyria coalition, CAFOD joins more than 90 organisations around the world calling on political leaders to push for a peaceful end to the war in Syria.

Anne Street, CAFOD’s Head of Humanitarian Policy, said: “When protests against the Syrian government began on 15 March 2011, few would have predicted that three years later the country would be engulfed in the worst humanitarian catastrophe of the 21st Century. Today it is ordinary Syrians who are paying the heaviest price. Millions of people are facing severe shortages of food and medical supplies, and a whole generation of children is missing out on school. For their sake, it’s vital that the war ends as soon as possible.

“Although the Geneva peace talks have had limited success so far, we must not give up hope. We must continue to put pressure on world leaders to push for peace and to do everything they can to ensure that aid reaches all those in need.”

#WithSyria is a coalition of more than 90 organisations around the world, including CAFOD, Christian Aid, Tearfund and Islamic Relief. Together they are calling on politicians to:

1. Stop the bloodshed: This means ending attacks on civilians, including schools and hospitals. It means respect for the laws of war and the rights of those affected by the conflict.

2. Ensure all those in need can access life-saving assistance.

3. Commit to inclusive peace talks: This means making sure the voices of those affected – including civil society and women – can be heard and heeded

As part of the campaign, thousands of people are expected to attend vigils across the world in the run-up to the anniversary, including in London and Cardiff on the evening of 13 March. Prominent landmarks, including Trafalgar Square, will be lit up in solidarity with the people of Syria.

As the war enters its fourth year, the humanitarian situation is continuing to deteriorate. A staggering 9.3 million people are in need of aid within Syria – a figure that has risen sharply from 6.8 million in June 2013. A further 2.3 million people have fled the country as refugees.

Catholics in England and Wales have donated more than £2.5 million to CAFOD’s Syria Crisis appeal. The agency is providing food, water, shelter and emergency supplies to people in need in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Iraq.

Najla Chahda, Director of CAFOD partner Caritas Lebanon Migrant Centre, said: “I find hope in the solidarity of Catholics around the world. I find hope in the generosity of people who donate to organisations like CAFOD. And I find hope in the knowledge that one day the warring factions will have to talk, and this devastating war will have to end.”

CAFOD is calling on Catholics in England and Wales to pray for the millions of Syria who are suffering around the time of the anniversary.

More details about the #WithSyria campaign and vigils can be found at www.with-syria.org/en