What role for Syrian non-governmental organisations in Deir ez-Zor after the war?

Abstract

During the years of war in Deir ez-Zor and the siege imposed by Islamic State on the pocket of territory in the city controlled by the Assad regime, Syrian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) failed to alleviate the suffering experienced by the local residents who remained there. After the fighting ended in the regime’s favour in late 2017, UN agencies and international NGOs expanded their intervention in Deir ez-Zor, which encouraged a number of local charitable and development NGOs to resume their activities. It also encouraged a growing number of national associations to implement projects and open offices in the city. Based on first-hand information, this study examines the roles of Syrian charitable and development NGOs operating in Deir ez-Zor city and analyses the key challenges they face in terms of their relationships with the ruling authorities and local communities.