The Aga Khan’s €100 Million Commitment: A New Era of Hope for Syria’s Recovery

Brussels, Belgium - March 17, 2025 – In a powerful statement made at the European Commission’s ninth annual conference titled "Standing with Syria: Meeting the Needs for a Successful Transition," His Highness the Aga Khan, Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, announced a substantial pledge of €100 million from the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to support Syria's urgent humanitarian and development needs over the next two years.

The conference aimed to galvanize international support for a Syrian-led, inclusive transition. It focused on the critical humanitarian, recovery, and reconstruction efforts that are essential for Syria and its neighboring countries, which have been grappling with the devastating effects of over a decade of conflict.

In his first public engagement since he became the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, following the passing of his father, Karim Aga Khan IV, on February 4, 2025, the Aga Khan articulated a vision for Syria's path forward: “We commit today to make available a minimum of €100 million over the next two years toward Syria’s recovery. Our ambition is to dramatically scale up humanitarian efforts, invest in renewable energy, expand healthcare and education, address food insecurity, and protect Syria's rich cultural heritage. However, this endeavor hinges on critical enabling conditions, starting with an immediate cessation of violence and a commitment to peace from all factions.”

His Highness also expressed his hope that Syria’s new government would honor its commitment to a government that is pluralistic and inclusive, catering to all citizens, regardless of gender, faith, or background.

Co-hosting the conference were key figures including Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs, and representatives from various EU bodies along with Syria’s Interim Foreign Minister and the UN. The event built upon discussions from the Paris Conference on Syria held in February.

International leaders echoed the need to support a holistic and inclusive approach to Syria’s recovery. “We must spare no effort to assist an inclusive transition that gives all Syrians a chance to rebuild their country according to their aspirations,” stated Kaja Kallas.

On the sidelines of the event, the Aga Khan engaged numerous dignitaries, including UN officials and representatives from international governments, to strategize on collaborative efforts to alleviate Syria’s humanitarian crisis.

The AKDN has a long-standing commitment to Syria, having contributed to the nation’s socio-economic and cultural development for over 25 years. Following the onset of the crisis in 2012, their focus shifted to emergency support, impacting over two million individuals in one of the world’s most pressing humanitarian disasters, where more than 80% of the population lives in poverty.

With deteriorating access to clean water, rising food insecurity affecting nearly 60% of the population, and significant disruptions in healthcare and education services, the situation is dire. As half of Syria’s health facilities are no longer operational and millions of children are out of school, the AKDN’s intervention is critical. The organization employs more than 780 local staff, largely Syrian nationals, including healthcare providers, engineers, and specialists dedicated to cultural restoration.

The ongoing crisis presents a critical moment for Syria, where shifting dynamics could lead to enhanced resilience, urgent needs being addressed, and an opportunity for improved social cohesion among its diverse communities.

Through a strategic partnership with entities like the European Commission, the AKDN is actively pursuing avenues to bring immediate relief and sustainable development to those adversely affected by the enduring conflict.

In the last five years, AKDN's efforts have reached monumental milestones by providing emergency support, critical healthcare, educational initiatives, and agricultural assistance, aiming to empower the most marginalized populations in Syria.

As the situation evolves, the commitment of the Ismaili Imamat and the broader international community could hold the key to a new chapter of hope and recovery for Syria.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What are your thoughts on the international community's role in Syria’s recovery?