Countries

Syria

The magnitude, duration and complexity of the conflict has had far reaching effects on the health situation in Syria. More than 11.3 million people are in need of immediate medical assistance across the country, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.


Iraq

Mass population displacements throughout Iraq has put the country into an emergency situation. As of November 2017, 11 million are in need of humanitarian assistance and 3.2 million are internally displaced. In December 2017, ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) has been defeated. Iraq forces retook Mosul, Tel Afar, Anbar, Hawija noting that ISIL is still present in certain areas of Iraq.


Lebanon

The sheer number of refugees places a huge strain on the Lebanese healthcare system. The public primary healthcare network is not fully in place and relies on an extremely expensive private sector. Despite partial subsidisation and relatively low fees, many refugees struggle to access health services. In 2017, about 70% of refugees from Syria in Lebanon lack valid residence.


Turkey

Since the beginning of the Syria crisis, massive population movements have taken place across the Turkish border and inside Turkey. The situation has put the local public health system under strain. Although registered Syrian refugees who hold an identification number benefit from free healthcare in public and private health facilities, refugees often have to cover associated costs (for drugs, transportation, etc.)…


Palestine

The Gaza Strip is one of the most densely populated territories in the world. 2 million people there, of which nearly 70% live in the 8 refugee camps. The humanitarian situation has worsened with the intensification of the land, air and sea blockade imposed by Israel since 2007, and with the Israeli military operations in 2008-2009, 2012 and 2014.


Egypt

Egypt hosts thousands of refugees and asylum seekers. The Egyptian Mediterranean coast has become an important departure point to Europe. Among the factors behind the increased movement to Europe, refugees and migrants have indicated the loss of hope, high cost of living leading to deepening poverty, deteriorated psychological and medical conditions, limited livelihood and education opportunities and aid shortfalls.


Yemen

The year 2017 ended in Yemen with continuous fighting across several fronts. The “2018 Humanitarian Needs Overview” was released, showing that 8.4 million Yemenis are now “severely food insecure and at risk of famine,” a 25 percent increase from 2017. The decline in the public health system is due to non-payment of medical salaries and difficulties in importing drugs and other essential supplies.