OUR IMPACT

JRS has made a significant impact on the lives of refugees, other forcibly displaced persons, and vulnerable population in the Middle East

Timeline: from 2017 to 2023.

Over 67,500 vulnerable children
provided with high-quality inclusive education.
Over 163,000 vulnerable individuals
assisted with protection or mental health and psychosocial support services.
Over 264,000 individuals
affected by crisis benefiting from emergency aids.
Over 157,000 vulnerable individuals
served by JRS health programmes.
Over 12,900 individuals
assisted by peace-building and reconciliation projects.
Over 5,500 vulnerable individuals
supported with livelihood initiatives.

Timeline: from 2017 to 2023.

Over 670,000 vulnerable individuals
were served by JRS MENA in the Middle Eastern countries affected by crisis: Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq.
Over 328,400 vulnerable individuals
were served in Syria.
Over 68,600 vulnerable individuals
were served in Lebanon.
Over 38,700 vulnerable individuals
were served in Jordan.
Over 235,000 vulnerable individuals
were served in Iraq.

The Syrian Civil War, which began in March 2011, has become one of the most devastating conflicts of the 21st century. Initially sparked by pro-democracy protests, the situation rapidly escalated into a full-scale war involving multiple factions, including the Syrian government, opposition groups, and various extremist organizations.

The conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, including widespread destruction, loss of life, and severe human rights violations.

As of 2024, the war has displaced over 13 million Syrians, with approximately 6.8 million seeking refuge abroad and around 6.2 million displaced within Syria.

Neighboring countries such as Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey have borne the brunt of the refugee influx, straining their resources and infrastructure.

The international community continues to grapple with the complex challenges of providing aid and finding a sustainable resolution to the conflict.

JRS Syria was founded in 2008 in response to the growing number of Iraqi refugees. When the civil war erupted in 2011, JRS Syria began serving internally displaced Syrians, providing health services, education, child protection, livelihood training, and emergency aid in areas where no other NGO could go.

JRS Syria tirelessly operates in government-controlled areas like Damascus (Jaramana), Aleppo (Sakhour, Hellok, Bustan Al-Basha), and Homs (Bab Sbaa, Kafroun), offering vital assistance amidst the turmoil.

The Iraq War, which began in March 2003 with the U.S. led invasion to overthrow Saddam Hussein, has had profound and lasting impacts on the country and its population.

Following the initial conflict, Iraq experienced years of insurgency, sectarian violence, and the rise of extremist groups such as ISIS, leading to widespread instability and humanitarian crises.

The war and its aftermath displaced millions of Iraqis. As of 2024, there are around 1.2 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) within Iraq and over 250,000 Iraqi refugees abroad, predominantly in neighboring countries like Jordan, Syria, and Turkey.

JRS has been actively involved in responding to the needs of these displaced populations.

JRS’s intervention in Iraq includes providing emergency assistance, education, psychosocial support, and advocacy for the rights and protection of displaced individuals.

Through its holistic approach, JRS strives to restore dignity and hope to those impacted by the war, ensuring they receive the care and assistance necessary to navigate the challenges of displacement.

JRS Iraq plays a crucial role in addressing the human displacement crisis in Sharya, Duhok Governorate, Erbil, Qaraqosh and Sinuni, Ninewa Governorate.

In Duhok, where displacement has been ongoing since the 2014, JRS operates one community center, prioritizing support for victims of the 2014 Yezidi genocide. Services include home visits, education, community training, and psychosocial care, specialized Mental Health and Psychosocial Support services.

Meanwhile, in Qaraqosh and Sinuni, returnees and Internally Displaced People (IDPs) grapple with trauma from the ISIS occupation, requiring essential psychosocial support and protection for their well-being and community reintegration.

JRS Iraq work in both regions is pivotal in providing support, building resilience, and addressing the complex needs of displaced populations and returnees.

Lebanon is grappling with a multifaceted crisis marked by economic collapse, political instability, and the repercussions of regional conflicts.

Since 2019, the country has experienced a severe economic downturn, characterized by hyperinflation, a depreciating currency, and widespread poverty, exacerbated by rampant corruption and mismanagement.

The situation has been further complicated by the presence of a large refugee population, with approximately 1.5 million Syrian refugees and around 200,000 Palestinian refugees residing in Lebanon.

Additionally, Lebanon has faced recurring tensions and conflicts with Israel, contributing to its fragile security situation.

JRS has been at the forefront of responding to the humanitarian needs arising from these crises. JRS’s intervention in Lebanon focuses on providing essential services to both refugees and vulnerable Lebanese communities.

JRS Lebanon continues to address new and protracted displacement issues, education crises, mental health struggles, and reduced livelihoods in a vulnerable Lebanese society where economic and social challenges are worse than ever.

By addressing immediate needs and promoting long-term recovery, JRS plays a crucial role in alleviating the suffering caused by Lebanon’s multifaceted crisis and in supporting the well-being and dignity of those affected.

JRS Lebanon operates in three locations across the country: Bourj Hammoud, Bar Elias, and Baalbeck.

The Mediterranean crossings from the Middle East have become one of the most perilous migration routes in the world. Fleeing conflict, persecution, and economic hardship, thousands of individuals and families undertake the dangerous journey each year in search of safety and a better life in Europe.

In 2023 alone, over 100,000 migrants attempted to cross the Mediterranean, with a significant number originating from countries like Syria and Iraq.

Tragically, many do not survive the journey, falling victim to harsh conditions and unsafe vessels.

JRS has been actively involved in responding to this crisis in Europe. JRS’s intervention includes providing emergency assistance, legal support, and integration services to migrants and refugees arriving in Europe.

Their programs offer essential aid such as food, shelter, medical care, and psychosocial support, helping individuals recover from their arduous journeys. JRS also advocates for the rights and protection of refugees and migrants, working to ensure they are treated with dignity and respect.

Through these efforts, JRS plays a vital role in supporting those affected by the Mediterranean migration crisis, helping them rebuild their lives in their new host countries.

OUR IMPACT

JRS has made a significant impact on the lives of refugees, other forcibly displaced persons, and vulnerable population in the Middle East

Delivering Significant Change

Countries affected by crisis

Syria War

2011

Iraq War

2003

Lebanon crisis

2011

Mediterranean Crossings

2015

HELP US MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF REFUGEES