In northeast Syria, everyday-masks are expensive and rare goods. Together with local seamstresses, we have produced and distributed over 8000 masks to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

A few months ago here in Germany, facemasks were overpriced and hard to come by, just like in Syria. Here this problem was resolved within a few weeks. But Syria’s mask shortage cannot be solved simply by mass importing goods from the production countries.

The masks are cut (left) and sewn (right).

Weak economy – a risk of disease

We became aware of the situation when neighbours and friends of our team in northeast Syria asked them for some of their disposable medical masks. The danger posed by the coronavirus is generally known in the syrian population, although hardly anyone wears a mask. In a population where 80% of the people live below the poverty line, almost nobody can afford such an overpriced luxury good. This critical economic situation also forces people to work, despite the increased risk of infection. Many Syrians are displaced from their homes and live in overcrowded shelters, where keeping distance is hardly possible. In these places, the insufficient sanitation rarely makes it achievable to adhere to hygiene rules.

Sanctions affect the population

The reasons for the scarcity of everyday masks are countless and complicated. Border crossings to deliver goods to northeast Syria without restrictions are hardly possible. And the effects of the Ceasar Act are becoming noticeable throughout Syria.
The Ceasar Act came into effect a few months ago and contains far-reaching economic sanctions by the USA against the Syrian regime under the ruler Bashar al Assad. The goal is to end the war between the syrian elite and their own people. The real consequence, however, is a deathly blow to Syria’s already weak economy. The sanctions have caused inflation and a dramatic deterioration in the living conditions of the local people. The northeast of Syria is severely affected by these sanctions. Medical supplies are the only imported goods, delivered by the United Nations. Although they do typically include the typical disposable surgical masks, these are very limited and only intended for health workers

One of the finished masks.

Masks from Syria for Syria

The threat of Sars-COV-2 is only one of many problems that need to be solved. That is why we have joined forces with our local partners and initiated the production of everyday masks.
Doctors instructed seamstresses and they have been able to produce about 8.000 masks, financed by the Lush Charity Pot. In the self-organized administrations, for example, Tal Tamr, health workers distribute the masks to the population. The masks are placed in hygiene packages with detailed instructions for use.
Before distribution, we carry out comprehensive hygiene training for the health workers. The trainings include general information about Covid-19, infection risks, and measures to protect against the virus.
Despite our efforts, the 8,000 masks produced up till now are still far from being enough, but they are a start.