We must work to ensure that Syrians can get enough aid, wherever they are

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/may/30/work-ensure-syrians-get-aid

Version 0 of 1.

For more than three years our organisations have worked to provide aid to Syrians in desperate need against a backdrop of failed international political leadership to end the crisis. More than 6.5 million are internally displaced and half the population (about 10 million) are in need of humanitarian assistance. Together we deliver vital assistance to millions of people whose lives have been shattered by this conflict. Syrian groups have reached many millions more. Humanitarian workers continue to deliver in extraordinary and often dangerous circumstances – this is the job, to serve those in need. It is a job that is getting more treacherous and difficult by the day.

More than 90 days ago the UN security council unanimously adopted a resolution to relieve suffering in Syria by requiring that humanitarian assistance be provided through the most direct routes possible. It is clear that the resolution has failed to achieve this objective: its demands have been ignored by the warring parties and people continue to be deliberately denied access to life-saving aid. The humanitarian situation is deteriorating, violence is escalating and diplomatic efforts to bring about a negotiated solution have failed. With stakes this high, new ideas and determined leadership are needed; the status quo is unacceptable.

The international community must work to ensure Syrians can get enough aid wherever they are, be that through sustainable cross-border or cross-line delivery. Efforts should focus on securing local ceasefires – through meaningful negotiations, not siege tactics and starvation strategies – so that aid can be delivered, economies restarted and dialogue to find a longer-term solution to the crisis renewed. It is not our job to tell politicians how to meet these goals but it is our role to highlight their failure to do so when it is so tragically and lethally costly. The world has stood aghast as Syrians clamour for an end to their suffering. History will be generous to those who answer their call and unforgiving to those who turn away. Leigh Daynes CEO, Doctors of the World UK Guido Dost director, Johanniter International Assistance Jan Egeland secretary general, Norwegian Refugee CouncilRev John L McCullough president and CEO, Church World Service Justin Forsyth chief executive, Save the ChildrenDavid Miliband president and CEO, International Rescue CommitteeManuel Patrouillard executive director, Handicap International Federation Sven Seifert executive director of the board, Arche noVa Henrik Stubkjaer general secretary, DanChurchAid Liv Tørres secretary general, Norwegian People's AidMarie-Pierre Caley CEO, ActedNeal Keny-Guyer CEO, Mercy Corps