During a recent visit to Syria, Susanna Pykälä, the Austrian Red Cross Climate Advisor, together with colleagues from headquarters and the Middle East office, met with partners to discuss climate-related challenges in the country and explore potential adaptation and mitigation measures. Her initial reflection on her trip to Syria: "It's been a genuinely humbling experience to witness the Austrian Red Cross and Syrian Arab Red Crescent teams working so seamlessly together. The operating environment is challenging, but there is a remarkable sense of trust, professionalism and positive energy. It's a great reminder that strong partnerships are built not only on technical expertise, but on people who support each other and share a common purpose." 

As part of the visit, the team visited Ain El Fijeh water station in Rural Damascus, a key water source that supplies approximately 70% of Damascus city’s water needs. The Austrian Red Cross previously contributed to the rehabilitation of this critical facility in 2018, supporting the restoration of essential water services for the population.

The team also visited Ain El Zarqa water station in Idlib, where the Austrian Red Cross is currently contributing to the rehabilitation of two wells. Once completed, the intervention will support improved access to safe water and basic services for approximately 210,000 returnees.

"As a climate advisor, I was inspired by SARC's ability to see opportunity where others see rubble. Exploring how debris could be reused as building materials shows the kind of innovative thinking that can strengthen both recovery and resilience."

These visits highlighted the importance of investing in resilient water infrastructure, particularly in areas affected by conflict, displacement, and climate-related pressures.

"It was humbling to see communities rebuilding their lives. What stayed with me was that the people we serve always came first. Despite the scale of the recovery, there was such warmth, trust and teamwork between the Austrian Red Cross and Syrian Arab Red Crescent—it was a privilege to experience."