The Current

Peace deal urgently needed as Syria's humanitarian crisis persists

Peace negotiations in Syria are at a critical do-or-die point as those living through the conflict are in dire need of humanitarian aid and security for the future.
Despite deteriorating conditions, some Syrians who have the option to leave the region are choosing to stay, to do what they can to help. (Gokhan Sahin/Getty Images)

Read story transcript

This week marks a grim anniversary for Syria. It's been five years since the pro-democracy protests against the regime of Bashar al-Assad, and the start of a seemingly uncontrollable conflict. 

In the past few days, leaders and diplomats have begun to take the necessary steps towards peace, but questions remain of what will come of those upended by the conflict — both in Syria and abroad.

I can come stay [in Canada], but ... this is what gives me hope and that's what gives me a sense for life.- Elias Sadkni got his papers to reside in Canada last week, but will return to Syria to help rebuild peace

Elias Sadkni's organization, House of Peace, was launched with support and funding from Canadian NGO Development and Peace, which has one of the largest responses in Canada to the crisis in Syria. (Kelly Di Domenico)

While hope seems to be on the horizon as peace talks progress, what of the dire need of humanitarian aid in the meantime? 

Guests in this segment:

This segment was produced by The Current's Sujata Berry.