Aga Khan Pledges €100 Million for Syria’s Development Needs
His Highness the Aga Khan pledged €100 million from the Ismaili Imamat for Syria’s humanitarian and development needs during a conference on March 17, 2025. This announcement is aimed at promoting an inclusive transition in the country. AKDN has been active in Syria for over 25 years, addressing various socio-economic challenges. The ongoing commitment highlights the necessity of international support to assist in Syria’s recovery and rebuild efforts.
On March 17, 2025, during the European Commission’s ninth annual conference supporting Syria, His Highness the Aga Khan, along with the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), announced a pledge of €100 million over two years to assist in addressing Syria’s critical humanitarian and developmental needs. The conference aimed to foster international support for a Syrian-led and inclusive transition, focusing on essential humanitarian efforts and reconstruction assistance for Syria and its neighboring regions.
This engagement marked the Aga Khan’s first public appearance since becoming the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims following the death of his father in February 2025. He emphasized the commitment to investing in humanitarian efforts, renewable energy, healthcare, education, food security, and the preservation of Syria’s cultural heritage. His Highness stated, “We commit today to make available a minimum of €100 million over the next two years toward Syria’s recovery… It is our dearest hope and expectation that Syria’s new government will uphold its promise of enlightened, pluralistic, and inclusive government for all Syrians.”
The event was co-hosted by prominent EU officials including Kaja Kallas, who highlighted the necessity of assisting an inclusive transition for all Syrians. His Highness had substantial discussions with key figures, including Syria’s Interim Foreign Minister and representatives from various UN agencies, emphasizing the commitment to humanitarian assistance and development initiatives.
AKDN has operated in Syria for over 25 years, focusing primarily on socio-economic and cultural development, transitioning to crisis response in 2012. Given Syria’s dire situation, characterized by extreme poverty, lack of clean water, food insecurity, and inadequate healthcare facilities, AKDN has mobilized substantial resources and personnel to tackle these challenges. They are collaborating with various international partners and have established a robust local workforce to support their initiatives.
Syria is at a pivotal point in its protracted crisis, with shifting dynamics presenting opportunities to address pressing needs and foster community resilience. The mission of AKDN remains focused on uplifting the most marginalized populations through direct interventions in various areas including health, education, and socio-economic development.
AKDN has significantly expanded its reach, working across seven governorates and partnering with over 200 local organizations. Their diverse activities include humanitarian aid, healthcare provision, educational support, and cultural restoration, aiming to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable individuals.
Ultimately, the commitment of €100 million signifies a strong intention to aid Syria’s recovery and development, highlighting global solidarity in the face of humanitarian crises.
The Aga Khan’s pledge of €100 million represents a significant commitment to support Syria in overcoming its humanitarian and developmental challenges. The collaboration between AKDN and various international partners underscores the importance of a unified approach towards rebuilding Syria. With an ongoing focus on humanitarian assistance, education, healthcare, and cultural restoration, these efforts aim to create lasting change and foster a cohesive future for all Syrians.
Original Source: the.akdn
