As the humanitarian and development landscape in Syria continues to evolve, there is an urgent need to focus on the fieldwork context and the remarkable potential of the local workforce. With over eight years of experience working closely with field personnel across all regions of the country, I have come to realize the immense value of investing in Syrian talent and the local community. The age-old adage, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime,” rings particularly true in Syria today. It raises a critical question for international organizations: who will lead the charge towards sustainable change in the region?
The Potential of Local Expertise
Throughout my experience, I have had the privilege of working with over 1,000 Syrian professionals, witnessing firsthand their exceptional capabilities and resilience. From recruitment and skill development to offering on-the-job training, I have seen their eagerness to learn and grow professionally. In my efforts to support more than 300 individuals in securing employment by equipping them with essential soft skills and technical training, it has become abundantly clear that harnessing the existing humanitarian and development-related expertise within the Syrian workforce is invaluable.
Rather than relying on external sources for knowledge and skills, organizations must prioritize the development of local talent. By nurturing and empowering skilled personnel, we can cultivate a sustainable, self-reliant workforce capable of driving growth and innovation. This approach not only strengthens the local economy but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride among community members.
The Importance of Thoughtful Recruitment
In a complex environment like Syria, it is vital to find well-experienced consultants who understand on-the-ground implementation and the specific needs of programs. Far too often, organizations fall back on standard HR practices that may not align with the unique challenges faced in the region. When recruiting in such a context, it is essential to seek individuals who possess both experience and the ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of the environment.
To avoid high turnover rates, resignations, and potential reputational harm, organizations should ensure that recruiters have a comprehensive understanding of the program’s core objectives. Those familiar with the job requirements and terms of reference can facilitate a more effective selection process, leading to successful and impactful programs on the ground.
Building Capacity Through Community Development
To truly harness the power of community development, organizations must engage with the specific needs of the Syrian people. By designing capacity-building activities targeted to these needs, we can deploy talent into meaningful roles that benefit both the individuals and their communities. It is paramount that any upcoming humanitarian and development initiatives involve Syrian citizens in recruitment processes and provide capacity-building training prior to placing them in field positions.
We must remember that the people of Syria deserve the best. Instead of exploiting their potential for our own benefit, we should be focused on teaching, guiding, and offering constructive on-the-job training. This investment in human capital will lead to the emergence of a strong, skilled cohort of implementers and innovators within their communities.
A Call to Action
As a professional with a remote perspective on Syria, I urge international and national organizations to recognize the critical importance of addressing the needs of the local population. All Terms of Reference for programs should include the necessity for meticulously designed capacity-building activities that empower Syrian individuals and bolster their implementation skills. By working collaboratively with the local workforce, we can make a significant and positive difference in Syria.
It is essential that forthcoming humanitarian and development programs prioritize the involvement of the Syrian people in recruitment decisions, offer comprehensive training, and provide on-the-job support before assigning them field roles. Together, we can foster a culture of empowerment and resilience, paving the way for a stronger and more prosperous future for Syria.
Do you resonate with this perspective?