Syrian Development Fund: $83M Pledges, $41M Collections

A recent report from the Syrian Development Fund shows significant financial pledges exceeding $83 million since its launch, with over $41 million actually collected.

Syrian Development Fund Announces Pledges and Collections Volume

The "Quarterly Performance Report - Q1 2026" issued by the Syrian Development Fund revealed financial pledges and donations totaling $83 million since its launch in September 2025. Actual collections exceeded $41 million by March 31, achieving a collection rate of 46% of the total registered pledges.

Fund Transitions to Operational Readiness

The report, published by SANA, clarified that during the first quarter of 2026, the Fund transitioned from the establishment phase to operational readiness. This was achieved by building institutional and operational frameworks, developing an initial portfolio of development programs, and forging strategic partnerships to implement over 45 initiatives in vital sectors.

Complex Development Reality in Syria

The report indicated that the Fund operates within a complex development reality in Syria, where approximately 15 million people require basic assistance. Accumulated economic losses are estimated at around $800 billion, the poverty rate exceeds 80%, the unemployment rate rises to over 50%, and youth unemployment reaches 60%.

Challenges in Vital Sectors

The report showed that over half of the hospitals operate below capacity or are out of service, and more than two million children are out of school. Additionally, over 20% of housing units have been damaged, half of the water networks are out of service, 12 million people suffer from food insecurity, and there are 6 million refugees and 7 million internally displaced persons.

Operating Principles and Strategic Partnerships

The report affirmed that the Fund adopts the principle of "national priority and need" by directly listening to local communities and enhancing transparency. It has completed building its institutional framework, adopted financial and administrative policies, and increased readiness to launch its first funding allocation cycle. It also signed a cooperation agreement with the Saudi-Syrian Business Council.

Details of Collections and Contributions

Financial collections were distributed among $36.4 million USD and approximately 53.2 billion old Syrian pounds, in addition to amounts in other currencies such as Euros, Turkish Lira, and Saudi Riyals. Notable contributions paid during Q1 2026 included the Al-Khayyat family's contribution of $3.5 million, bringing their total paid amount to $21 million.

Unpaid Financial Commitments and Governance Challenges

The report noted outstanding financial commitments, most notably $20 million from the auction of former regime vehicles, $10 million from businessman Wafiq Said, and $1 million each from Al-White Room Group, Ahmed and Omar Hamsho, and Al-Mahameed tribe. The Fund is working to develop its governance system despite challenges posed by varying rates of pledge collection.

Fund's Future Plans

The report affirmed that the next phase will involve the practical transition to project implementation and the launch of the first funding allocation cycle, along with expanding partnerships and improving pledge collection. This aims to support Syria's recovery and stability, in coordination with international bodies such as the World Bank and the United Nations Development Programme.