About the Platform "A New Beginning for Syria"
Many people in Germany wish to play an active role in Syria’s reconstruction and in building a peaceful future for the country – whether as private individuals or through civil society, municipalities, academia and the business sector. The platform ‘A New Beginning for Syria’, launched by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), provides a shared space for this.
On 21 April 2026, a full-day event attended by more than 270 participants took place in Berlin to mark the first anniversary of the platform “A New Beginning for Syria”, under the patronage of Federal Minister Reem Alabali Radovan. The aim of the anniversary event was to highlight the diverse contributions and achievements of the Syrian diaspora towards the reconstruction of Syria.
About the platform
The platform “A New Beginning for Syria” is an initiative of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It brings together people who wish to contribute to Syria’s social, political and economic transition, and provides a space for information, professional exchange, networking and cooperation.
The platform is aimed in particular at non-state actors based in Germany – ranging from committed individuals and diaspora initiatives, through civil society organisations, local authorities , municipalities and academic institutions, to companies and experts from various fields. It offers the opportunity to share experiences, forge contacts and further develop joint approaches to the reconstruction of Syria.
Who we are
The platform sees itself as a neutral space for information, dialogue and networking. It brings together different perspectives, experiences and areas of expertise, and promotes exchange between committed stakeholders in Germany and – where possible – with partners in Syria.
The platform does not award grants nor does it implement its own projects. Instead, it helps to make information accessible, raise the profile of existing initiatives, forge new contacts and initiate collaborations.
Aim of the platform
The aim of the platform is to strengthen the network of the diverse initiatives in Germany supporting Syria and to promote dialogue between relevant stakeholders. It brings together information, raises the profile of existing initiatives and supports its members in sharing knowledge, forging contacts and further developing joint ideas for Syria’s social, political and economic transition.
What we offer
The platform brings together information, networking and support services for those wishing to get involved in Syria’s social, political and economic transition.
The website gives you access to a range of services:
- Newsletter: Receive the latest information, invitations to events and news about the reconstruction of Syria.
- Partner Pool: Showcase your work – register here and post offers or requests for partnerships, expertise, projects and resources.
- Information & Guidance: Find information on funding opportunities, advisory services and the BMZ’s work in Syria. Keep up to date with the platform’s activities – including via the newsletter, the LinkedIn group and, soon, the YouTube channel.
- Exchange & Events: Take part in specialist events, workshops and discussion forums, and exchange ideas with others.
- Networking: Find out about the projects and activities undertaken by members of the platform and gain an insight into the wide range of initiatives supporting Syria. Make new contacts and work with other stakeholders to develop sustainable partnerships for the reconstruction of Syria.
Furthermore, the platform’s secretariat does its utmost, within the limits of its capabilities, to facilitate contacts between the relevant stakeholders and to promote professional exchange.
The role of the BMZ
The platform "A New Beginning for Syria" is being implemented on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and is administered by Division 203 – Middle East II.
The division is responsible for the platform’s strategic positioning and oversees its ongoing development. The operational implementation is carried out by the platform's secretariat.
Further Information
Further information on upcoming events of the platform “A New Beginning for Syria” is available via our Newsletter and through our LinkedIn group, which we warmly invite you to join.
Questions & Feedback
Do you have ideas or questions you would like to share with the platform “A New Beginning for Syria”? Would you like to contribute your experience and expertise? Please contact us at: @email