"No Christian from the East leaves his country willingly."
Syria: Young People Forced into Exile
Since 2012, Syria has been engulfed in a devastating civil war that has led to an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
Young Syrian Christians have been particularly affected by the situation. In addition to widespread violence, they have often been targeted by extremist groups because of their faith. Many have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge abroad or in safer parts of the country. A quarter of the world’s refugees are Syrian.
Those who remain face enormous challenges, including insecurity, lack of access to education and economic opportunities, and constant pressure to emigrate. Despite everything, some Syrian Christians continue to play a crucial role in rebuilding their communities and promoting interfaith dialogue.
Field Activities
Syria was one of the first countries to receive aid from Œuvre d’Orient nearly 170 years ago.
The Syrian agricultural sector faces numerous challenges, including the high cost of agricultural equipment and a lack of human and financial resources. This situation threatens to plunge Syria into a severe supply crisis, particularly regarding wheat, raising serious concerns about the country’s food security.
To support Syrian youth, the Hope Center Syria, a local partner of L’Œuvre d’Orient, has launched an aid project aimed at young farmers. Already underway in 2023, this support has enabled dozens of farmers in the Homs region to benefit from technical and material assistance.
At the same time, training programs in manual and technical trades, as well as new technologies, are being launched, offering young people concrete alternatives to exile. These projects, carried out in collaboration with local partners, aim to restore confidence among young Syrians and encourage them to become agents of development and peace in their country.
Solar panels to power a well
In the agricultural region of the Homs Governorate (“Valley of the Christians”), where L’Œuvre d’Orient, in partnership with the Hope Center Syria, supports micro-agriculture projects and other infrastructure initiatives, such as the digging of wells powered by solar energy, to develop irrigation and provide the neighboring village with drinking water.
Micro-projects with the Blue Marists
Many projects are launched each year focused on training in the skilled trades.
Small-scale agricultural projects in Homs
The project provides funding to young farmers, supplies agricultural equipment, and promotes sustainable agriculture.
In partnership with the Hope Center in Damascus
Career guidance and vocational training for young people. 6-month training program: English, computer skills, and communication courses
