DAMASCUS: Syria’s post-civil war reconstruction could cost up to $216 billion according to a World Bank report released on Tuesday.
The assessment follows over 13 years of conflict that devastated the country’s infrastructure and building assets between 2011 and 2024.
Reconstruction represents one of the most significant challenges facing Syria’s new Islamist authorities after the overthrow of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December.
“The conflict has damaged nearly one-third of Syria’s pre-conflict gross capital stock, with direct physical damages to infrastructure, residential buildings, and non-residential buildings estimated at $108 billion,“ the report stated.
Infrastructure suffered the most severe impact, accounting for 48% of total damage equivalent to $52 billion.
The report estimates reconstruction costs for physical assets ranging between $140 billion and $345 billion, with a conservative best estimate of $216 billion.
Aleppo province and the Damascus countryside, both major rebel strongholds subjected to heavy bombardment, bore the brunt of the destruction.
Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Middle East division director, said the challenges ahead are immense but the institution stands ready to support recovery.
“The World Bank stands ready to work alongside the Syrian people and the international community to support recovery and reconstruction,“ Carret stated.
The reconstruction costs are estimated to be ten times greater than Syria’s projected 2024 GDP.
Since Assad’s fall, Syria’s new authorities have worked to attract reconstruction investment through agreements with companies and governments including Gulf countries.
Syrian Finance Minister Mohammed Barnieh called the report critical for understanding the massive scale of destruction ahead.
“Now, more than ever, it is imperative for the international community to mobilise support and partnership to help Syria restore essential infrastructure, revitalise communities, and lay the foundation for a more resilient future for its people,“ he added. – Bernama
