As a result of ongoing conflicts in Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Sudan, the population has been subjected to extreme levels of fear, violence, and poverty, leading to a significant decline in human security. The United Nations emphasizes the necessity of an environment where people can live in dignity, free from threats and disruptions to their daily lives. The humanitarian situation in these countries has reached alarming levels, with millions lacking basic needs such as food, health services, and shelter.
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that approximately 46 million people in these four countries require humanitarian assistance, with 36 million in need of food and 41 million lacking health services. The economic impact of the conflicts is severe, with Syria, for example, experiencing war-related costs amounting to 67% of its GDP. This decline in human development has resulted in increased poverty, displacement, and a significant deterioration of life expectancy, particularly affecting vulnerable groups like women and children.
Human security in the Arab world has become a pressing issue, as highlighted by the UNDP's focus on 'freedom from fear' and 'freedom from poverty.' The ongoing violence and instability in these countries have led to a humanitarian crisis that threatens not only individual lives but also the broader stability of the region. Experts warn that the continuation of these conflicts could result in the collapse of the humanitarian system, exacerbating the suffering of millions and leading to increased militarization and extremism among the youth.
- The situation in Syria is particularly dire, with the country ranked 161 out of 163 in the 2023 Global Peace Index, followed closely by Yemen and Libya. The ongoing violence has resulted in the highest rates of internal displacement globally, forcing millions to flee to neighboring countries or Europe in search of safety and a better future.
- International organizations have raised alarms about the severe human rights violations occurring in these conflict zones, with reports of mass killings, torture, and the use of banned weapons. This has led to a growing sense of insecurity among civilians, who are increasingly caught in the crossfire of competing armed groups and state forces.
