Empowering Syrian Civil Society

Amid ongoing uncertainty, hope continues to grow inside Syria. The Center for Civil Society and Democracy (CCSD) is working hand-in-hand with 50 local partners who are spearheading innovative initiatives to address urgent needs, enhance their communities, and lay the groundwork for a future founded on justice, dignity, and resilience.

New Local Initiatives: Led by Syrians, for Syrians

Since early 2025, in addition to attending training workshops and participating in dialogue forums, our partners have launched several new community-led efforts tailored to local needs. These initiatives reflect Syrians' deep commitment to providing for the most vulnerable in their communities and developing systems for systemic change. These grassroots projects are already having a ripple effect, providing not just services but hope, purpose, and connection. 

Here are a few highlights:

• Safety and Health in Afrin Countryside: 50 solar streetlights are being installed, 27 home water filters are being distributed, and awareness sessions are being held on clean water and public safety.
• Creating Inclusive Public Spaces: 150 trees are being planted, 100 streetlights are being installed, and local engineers are collaborating with the community to enhance public areas' accessibility for people with disabilities.
• Youth for Justice and Community Peace: 15 young people are being trained in transitional justice and community advocacy. Together, they've launched five campaigns to promote peace and accountability.
• Digital Storytellers for Peace: 28 young women and men creating digital content that highlights local issues through a lens of gender and conflict sensitivity. They are also receiving training in graphic design, content creation, and media ethics. 
• Preserving Cultural Heritage: A rich archive of intangible cultural heritage is being built, including 20 multimedia pieces and three short videos. Five murals are also underway, celebrating the cultural diversity of all ethnic and religious communities.

These initiatives were born from the ideas and energy of the three cohorts of civil society partners, welcomed in December 2024 as part of the Empowering Civil Society Organizations Program. One participant at a workshop on how to develop lasting peacebuilding projects said:

"I realized that community awareness is a key factor in sustaining work and achieving long-term impact. Furthermore, collaboration between civil society and an aware local community can influence governance and public policies through effective advocacy and coalitions." 

Your Support in Action

Since your support began through GlobalGiving, here's what you've made possible:

• Launch and support of 50 locally-led initiatives across
• Direct services reaching Syrians, including vulnerable populations of youth, women, and persons with disabilities
• Capacity-building for over 100 local leaders and 50 organizations

The Road Ahead

In the face of ongoing instability, Syrians continue to respond with creativity and courage. Amidst turmoil and uncertainty, Syrians are charting new paths forward—often with few resources but great determination.

Your support makes this work possible. It sends a message of solidarity and opens space for new beginnings. Thank you for being a vital part of this journey.

Together, we are transforming local action into lasting change.

Links:

• CCSD Website