“The Syrian Government is meeting for the first time with representatives from the Syrian opposition in what will hopefully be the first steps towards a sustainable peace. 

 

“Meanwhile millions of Syrians are enduring a second winter displaced from their homes. 

 

“Half of the country is now dependent on humanitarian aid and millions of people still cannot access life-saving assistance. In some areas disease and starvation are rife. The current situation is unacceptable and defies the basic norms of a civilised world. 

 

“Agreeing a negotiated peace is going to be difficult; however, committing to ensuring humanitarian aid reaches all those in need shouldn’t be. 

 

“As a coalition of some of the world’s largest humanitarian and human rights organisations we call on the international community to stand up for the people of Syria who are enduring the worst humanitarian crisis of our time. 

 

“The reputation of the United Nations and the member states of the Security Council are at risk unless they can show the resolve and responsibility needed to end the crisis and until that time take steps to ensure humanitarian assistance quickly reaches those who need it.”