Violence erupted between Druze and Bedouin ethnic groups – triggering deaths, displacement and infrastructure damage.
Many factors contributed to this violence, including the Syrian government, whose handling of the situation aggravated tensions and led to civilian harm and death. Though a truce was declared, violence continued and produced mistrust among minority communities, who feel vulnerable and unprotected.
Public reactions were concerning. Widespread calls for revenge circulated on social media, and peaceful voices urging restraint were silenced. Activists who spoke out against the ethnic violence were abused, and some were physically assaulted in the streets of Damascus.
Alarmingly, these acts of retaliation were often carried out by young people, highlighting that violence has been normalised for the next generation of Syrians. The state has not yet launched any measures to hold perpetrators to account or prevent further violence from breaking out. The situation was made worse by an Israeli air strike in Damascus, an unjustified and blatant act of aggression.
There is currently restricted humanitarian access to areas in southern Syria. Our team are facing extremely difficult conditions, risking their own safety to witness and stop violations directly.
Members of our teams have experienced significant trauma. Some attempted to peacefully protest, and as a result were targeted with legal action. In the absence of adequate emotional and financial support, many staff members have struggled to remain engaged in their roles.
Some have chosen to withdraw from activism temporarily. Bringing them back, to reapply their skills and energy in rebuilding Syria’s future, will require intentional and sustained support.
After 12 long years, Syria cannot take another conflict. A donation from you will support Child Guardians to provide lifesaving support to young people in Syria.
Syrian peacebuilders are the only remaining voices of non-violence in an increasingly polarized environment. We are not asking for much, only to feel that we are not alone, and that others share our values. This affirmation alone gives us the strength to continue forward.
As the crisis becomes more divisive, local initiatives that bring communities together across divides are crucial to preventing further ethnic-based violence.
Supporting local peacebuilders in Syria has never been more important, especially as public support for violence grows. In this context, protecting peacebuilders is our greatest hope for preventing further conflict.
Our team of peacebuilders at Child Guardians work to achieve a safe, peaceful future for Syria.
Together with Peace Direct, we provide urgent support and protection to children and families impacted by the Syrian conflict.
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