A report by “Response Coordinators” highlights an increase in poverty levels in Northwest Syria.
Tuesday, August 29, 2023
The Syrian “Response Coordinators” team stated that the recognized poverty threshold increased during the month of August 2023 to a value of 6,473 Turkish Lira, while the extreme poverty threshold rose to a value of 4,669 Turkish Lira. They noted an increase in the poverty threshold by 1.12 percent, raising the percentage of families living below the poverty line to 90.93 percent.
The team mentioned in a report posted on Facebook that the hunger threshold has also increased to a new level, with an increase of 0.37 percent, bringing the percentage of families reaching the hunger threshold to 40.67 percent. Unemployment rates among civilians have also increased significantly, with unemployment rates rising by 0.17 percent in August, and the general unemployment rate reaching 88.65 percent on average (including day laborers in the mentioned categories).
They pointed out a 1.29 percent monthly and 74.18 percent annual inflation rate, alongside a clear lack of purchasing power among civilians, leaving them unable to keep up with the constant price changes, surpassing the civilians’ ability to secure their daily needs.
The team explained that the halt in humanitarian aid entering Syrian territory through the Bab al-Hawa border crossing since July 11 has led to increased various rates and an increase in the exchange rate, causing the prices of most items in the local market to rise by percentages ranging from 25 to 60 percent for various goods.
The team also emphasized that the minimum wage levels remain unchanged, taking into account the current exchange rates, with no significant increases observed. Increases in wages have ranged from 45 to 80 Turkish Lira, depending on the exchange rate.
The team pointed out that the biggest problem currently lies in the absence of international solutions to ensure the continuation of the humanitarian aid delivery process across the border and its cessation in the region, which further exacerbates the current figures to new levels.
