Who we are
Emissa is a non-profit organization founded and established in the Syrian city of Homs, a name derived
from the historical city of Emesa. Established in 2012 by a grassroots group of Syrian volunteers from
diverse moral and educational backgrounds, Emissa emerged to support compatriots suffering from the
escalating Syrian crisis.
Today, Emissa comprises a team of approximately 121 dedicated individuals, united by a shared belief in
human dignity, peace, and sustainable development. From the outset, our goal has been to support civil
ians in times of war and crises, particularly the most vulnerable, to alleviate their suffering and strengthen
their resilience.
Our mission extends beyond emergency response; we strive to empower communities and foster environ
ments where civilians affected by war can regain their dignity and rights. We assist in rebuilding lives by
providing expertise, capacity building, and access to education, vocational training, and the labor market.
To facilitate self-reliance, we ensure access to health, shelter, and basic services.
Emissa supports individuals without bias or exclusion, continuing our assistance even when the media
stops reporting. We partner with local and international organizations and collaborate closely with local
civic entities and key community members in our areas of operation. This local ownership and sustaina
bility are crucial for enhancing resilience. Our work is guided by clear humanitarian principles and a com
prehensive approach that places people and their individual rights and needs at the heart of all activities.
We believe that humanitarian and development work are integrated efforts aimed at creating self-reliant
societies. We are committed to fostering creativity by providing appropriate conditions. Emissa aims to
spread civic culture through all our projects, ensuring that everyone has the right to build their country
and participate in its planning and flourishing.