Syria: Homs, the mirror of the suffering of a forgotten war

Homs, a Syrian city, has become a symbol of the ravages of civil war, a veritable battlefield where life has stood still in time. Once the jewel of the country, Homs is now scarred by years of violence, leaving indelible scars on both the landscape and infrastructure. The inhabitants, caught in this hell, desperately try to find some semblance of normality in a daily life of ruin and despair.

The weight of a glorious past

Known for its rich heritage and strategic location, Homs was once a thriving, vibrant and promising city. Ancient churches, mosques and schools were a testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures and religions. But those glorious days are over. Now, the historic buildings are half-destroyed, memories of a glorious past reduced to dust. The children who used to play in the streets are gone, replaced by ghosts. How do you rebuild a city when you have lost its memory?

Broken lives, lost dreams

Displacement is widespread. Many people have fled the relentless bombardment, seeking refuge in safer areas. Those who remain live in fear and uncertainty, juggling lack of food, clean water and electricity. Stories of resilience in this chronic war are met with suffering. Every day is a struggle, and every moment is a reminder that life can change at any moment. How do you rebuild a community when suspicion and mistrust dominate daily interactions?

An uncertain future

Today, Homs is in a deadlock. Taken over by the regime, the city is gripped by poverty and isolation. Reconstruction is slow and often seems like a mirage. As the world continues to move on, Homs residents are asking themselves: what will become of our city? Will the scars of the past prevent true reconciliation? The voices of those who survived must be heard to build a brighter future, but how can this be done without adequate international support?

Homs is a poignant example of what prolonged conflict can lead to. This once vibrant city has become a mirror of Syria’s struggles. The path to peace and reconstruction seems arduous, but it is imperative to remember the hopes, dreams and stories of the people who still call Homs home.