workers removing debris with shovels.

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Syrian Arab Republic

Workers clearing rubble caused by the earthquake in Syria. © ILO- Aleppo- October2023

The Syrian Arab Republic (Syria) has been a member of the ILO since 1947 and has ratified 51 ILO Conventions, including nine core Conventions, with Convention 187 on Promotional Framework for Occupational Safety and Health Convention yet to be ratified. In February 2023, the ILO reinstated its physical presence in Syria, with the appointment of a Country Coordinator. This has facilitated closer work with constituents and, with ILO as a member of the United Nations Country Team, with other UN agencies operating in Syria.


The overthrow of the previous regime in December 2024 and the ongoing political transition marks a pivotal moment, offering opportunities for recovery and reconstruction amid significant challenges. The expected accelerated return of refugees and internally displaced persons to their homes has intensified pressures on already fragile labour markets and social protection systems, highlighting the urgency of addressing reintegration, social cohesion, and economic stability. Alongside the wider UN efforts, the ILO aims to intensify its operations in the country, seeking to integrate decent work principles into humanitarian responses and recovery efforts. Clearly, the recovery must be job-rich and inclusive to rebuild a new Syria based on sustainable development, long-term resilience and peace.
 

The ILO's engagement in Syria

Syria: Promoting decent work in times of transition

ILO Programme of Support

Syria: Promoting decent work in times of transition

Latest news and stories

ILO affirms commitment to decent work and social protection as a cornerstone of Syria’s recovery
ILO Regional Director for Arab States Ruba Jaradat and ILO Delegation met with With Vice President of the Damascus and Damascus Countryside Chamber of Industry Louay Nahlawi in Damascus. 27/05/2025

ILO affirms commitment to decent work and social protection as a cornerstone of Syria’s recovery

ILO and partners highlight pathways to post-crisis recovery in Syria through social dialogue
ILO Syria's tripartite meeting in Damascus brings together government, employers and workers to chart a path toward inclusive recovery and decent work.

ILO and partners highlight pathways to post-crisis recovery in Syria through social dialogue

Projects and programmes

Promoting Decent Work in the Garment Supply Chains in Syria

Project

Promoting Decent Work in the Garment Supply Chains in Syria

Emergency employment through rural road rehabilitation for decent jobs and livelihoods recovery

Project

Emergency employment through rural road rehabilitation for decent jobs and livelihoods recovery

Events

Taking the pulse of Social Protection in the Arab world: Insights and priorities ahead from the World Social Protection Report 2024-26

Arab Social Protection Compass Webinar series: Part VII

Taking the pulse of Social Protection in the Arab world: Insights and priorities ahead from the World Social Protection Report 2024-26

Publications

Facilitating transition between social assistance and social insurance

Facilitating transition between social assistance and social insurance

Assessment of Labour Migration Statistics in the Arab States

Regional Report

Assessment of Labour Migration Statistics in the Arab States

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Picture of a book case.
All resources

All resources

Browse our catalogue of resources from or about Syria and filter by topic or sector.

Tripartite partners

Work with us

Contact

Mohamed Anas Sabee

ILO Syria Country Coordinator

ILO activities in Syria are coordinated by the ILO in the Arab States Office, based in Beirut.

Aresco Centre - Justinien Street - Kantari
P.O.Box 11-4088 Riad Solh 1107-2150
Beirut – Lebanon

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