Berlin, December 12, 2024 – The Europe Today: Svenja Schulze, the German development minister of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), held a press conference in Berlin to address the challenges faced by her ministry over the last three years and to announce increased involvement in Syria in response to the urgent humanitarian situation in the country.
During the conference, Schulze highlighted the constant attacks faced by development projects around the world, particularly from right-wing populists in Germany who have shown hostility towards initiatives supporting the poor in the global South. Despite these challenges, the SPD politician emphasized the importance of supporting those in need.
The ongoing civil war in Syria has led to a dire humanitarian crisis, prompting Schulze to speak about Germany’s renewed commitment to providing assistance to the country. German development assistance to Syria has fallen to €125 million ($132 million), primarily supporting United Nations projects like providing drinking water to Aleppo amidst the ongoing conflict.
Schulze expressed the ministry’s readiness to increase its involvement, stating, “The Development Ministry has been preparing for this moment for 13 years. Building state structures is our core business.” The minister highlighted the importance of focusing on basic necessities and building sustainable infrastructure to support the Syrian population affected by the conflict.
As Germany seeks to step up its efforts in responding to the urgent humanitarian needs in Syria, Schulze affirmed the country’s commitment to supporting ongoing development projects in the region and working towards a more stable and secure future for the Syrian people.
