This rapid review is based on 5 days of desk-based research. It is designed to provide a brief overview of the key issues, and a summary of pertinent evidence found within the time permitted. The literature was identified using two methods. Firstly, a number of experts were identified and contacted. They were asked to provide comments, references and information relevant to this query. Their comments are listed under the ‘Comments from Experts’ section. Secondly, a non-systematic internet based search was undertaken find evidence on disability in Syria.

There are five main sections to the report. The first main section provides some background information to disability and the Syria crisis. The second looks at disability prevalence in Syria. The third provides information on what the major donors are doing to address disability in Syria. The fourth looks at the contribution of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The final main section presents what the non-government organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations (CSOs), and disabled persons organisations (DPOs) are doing to address disability in Syria.

This helpdesk report was focused mainly on Syrian’s with disabilities living in Syria. However, it is clear that as a result of the Syrian crisis, many Syrians have been displaced, with many crossing into neighbouring countries. Due to the conflict and the political instability, some organisations are focusing their efforts on helping displaced Syrians in neighbouring countries, namely Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan, Turkey and Egypt. Increasing the geographic focus of this query to include all of the disability interventions in these countries was not possible within the scope of this report. However, where possible, information on interventions focused on assisting Syrian refugees who are currently located in countries neighbouring Syria was also included, although this was not the focus of the report’s searches.