Published on: 2026-10-15
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
October 12, 2026 Peace and Security
Deputy Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for Syria Claudio Cordone presented to the UN Security Council an overview of the current situation in the country, highlighting both the achievements of the transitional period and the ongoing challenges.
Economy: rising prices and protests
Cordone stated that improving the economic situation remains a key factor for the success of the transitional period. According to him, the recent increase in fuel prices caused a rise in transportation and production costs, which, combined with the depreciation of the national currency, led to a roughly 30 percent increase in food prices. This sparked protests across the country, after which the authorities reduced diesel fuel prices.
Investment and sanctions relief
Cordone welcomed the new opportunities that have opened up in Syria due to the easing of sanctions. He reported that the EU allocated 620 million euros to the country, and the World Bank approved the allocation of 175 million dollars for agricultural projects.
“The task now is to turn these opportunities into sustainable support for Syria’s recovery,” Cordone emphasized.
New university admission rules
The deputy special envoy reported that about two million Syrian children remain out of school, and the new university admission rules are causing concern among human rights defenders: among other things, they provide for certain specialties to be assigned exclusively to men or women in specific universities, a ban on membership in political parties or organizations as a condition for admission, as well as restrictions faced by people with disabilities.
“I urge the authorities to reconsider these guidelines to ensure equal access to higher education, free from discrimination based on gender, disability, or political affiliation,” said Cordone.
Increase in intercommunal violence
Cordone reported alarming incidents that demonstrate the fragility of intercommunal relations. In particular, he recounted the attack on a minibus in Homs on September 30, where seven people died.
“It is important to calm the affected communities, prevent retaliatory actions, and avoid assigning collective blame,” he said.
Separately, the deputy special envoy expressed concern over the actions of Israeli forces in southern Syria: “I reiterate the Secretary-General’s call to cease violations of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and to fully respect Syria’s sovereignty.”
Continuation of reforms
Kordone noted an important step by the new authorities – the abolition of the counter-terrorism court from Assad’s time and the annulment of its decisions.
He welcomed the publication of the draft NGO law, prepared with the participation of civil society representatives, and called for further consultations: “We call for broader efforts aimed at ensuring that women are meaningfully represented in decision-making and play a full role in public life.”
Cordone concluded his speech with a statement of the UN’s readiness to expand cooperation with the Syrian authorities: “We strive to effectively unite Syrian and international efforts to ensure the success of the transition period, led and carried out by the people of Syria.”
Return of refugees
As more Syrians return home, Syria is approaching a turning point. Mohamed Yahya, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, said this at a meeting. Since December 2024, more than 1.82 million refugees and 2.04 million internally displaced persons have returned to the country.
At the same time, more than 5.5 million Syrians remain internally displaced persons. Approximately 770,000 of them live in camps, mostly women and children. With the approach of winter, the lack of proper shelter and heating creates serious risks.
“Emergency aid alone is not enough,” Yahya emphasized, calling for investment in sustainable solutions, including government initiatives “No Camps” and “No Mines.”
The 2026 humanitarian response plan for Syria is funded at only 32 percent. In this regard, Yahya called for ensuring stable funding and investments in basic services.
“Syrians deserve the opportunity to rebuild their lives and prosper,” he said.
Note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the information source. It is an accurate report of what the source asserts and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.