The need for humanitarian aid in 2023 appears to be greater than projected a year ago. The most serious humanitarian crises, such as the Syrian crisis, are also the most underfunded. Only 7,6% of the Humanitarian Response Plan 2023 is covered with funding.

In this scenario, the crisis in Syria is about to enter its 13^th year and the situation seems to be getting worse from every angle. The new year – after the earthquake still more - seems to be even more difficult than all the previous ones: the constant economic decline that the country faces, the desperation of citizens, the instability, the lack of hope in a possible restart and development are highlighting the need of a way to help Syrians beyond the emergency.

What can be done in this direction? The humanitarian assistance organizations - through which the EU supports the Syrian crisis - could act as guarantors and pave the way for early recovery actions and then durable solutions that stem from the need of building a place where refugees can really return and Syrian families to meet humanitarian needs: an income, medical care and education for their children.