Refugees are among the most vulnerable civilians in the Middle East. Many have fled overcrowded camps for urban centers in the hopes of earning a better life for their loved ones. Yet, too often they lack the training, civil documentation, and support needed to access decent work, housing, and public services. It can be a daily struggle to avoid housing eviction and hunger. In these situations, children are at greater risk of early marriage, child labor, and years of missed schooling. Sexual and gender-based violence and workplace exploitation continue to affect the least protected.

The eligibility criteria and application periods for temporary protection IDs in Turkey and birth registration in Lebanon have changed over time. Without these documents, Syrian refugees have difficulty accessing education, health care, and work. Other sought-after documents include: marriage certificates, residency permits, degree equivalency, and work permits.

In parts of Syria, children are poorly protected from aerial bombardment and shelling. Many have witnessed their parents and friends become casualties of the war. Such trauma is more than a child should ever have to endure. The recent surge in displacement in Northwest Syria and the threat of COVID-19 has resulted in further isolation. Many aid actors have had to suspend psychosocial support programs that provide tremendous emotional support to the young.

RPI and its local implementing partners work to meet these needs by: