Internally displaced people, or IDP, are among the world’s most vulnerable people. Unlike refugees, IDP have not crossed an international border to find sanctuary but have remained inside their home countries.
Even if they have fled for similar reasons as refugees (armed conflict, generalized violence, human rights violations), IDP legally remain under the protection of their own government. As citizens, they retain all of their rights and protection under both human rights and international humanitarian law.
There are 6.2 million people, including 2.5 million children, displaced within Syria, the biggest internally displaced population in the World. The pace of displacement remains relentless. Well over 1.8 million people have been displaced in 2017, many for the second or third time.
UNHCR’s support to IDPs in Syria started in 2012. UNHCR’s support includes the provision of protection and community services, distribution of core relief items, shelter assistance, health-care services, and educational support.
In 2017, Syria Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) has been developed in consultation with the Government of Syria and sets out the framework within which the humanitarian community will respond to large-scale humanitarian and protection needs in Syria on the basis of the prioritization undertaken within and across sectors.
The HRP also presents urgent funding requirements to meet the ever-growing needs. The plan is based on ample data on needs. It is anchored by three strategic objectives, focusing on saving lives and alleviating suffering, enhancing protection and building resilience.