Syrian ismailis 2012

The Ismaili community in Syria has a long history dating back to the 10th century. Here are some key facts about the Ismaili community in Syria in 2012:

Population: According to the Syrian government's census in 2004, there were approximately 40,000 Ismailis living in Syria. However, this number may have changed due to the Syrian Civil War.

Location: The majority of Ismailis in Syria lived in the cities of Aleppo, Damascus, and Latakia.

Community Structure: The Ismaili community in Syria was led by the Aga Khan, the 49th Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, who is also the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community worldwide. The community was organized into a network of local jamats (congregations) and councils, which were responsible for managing community affairs and providing social services.

Education: The Ismaili community in Syria placed a strong emphasis on education, and many Ismaili students attended schools and universities in Syria and abroad. The Aga Khan University Hospital in Aleppo was a major medical facility that provided healthcare services to the community and the wider Syrian population.

Economic Activities: Many Ismailis in Syria were engaged in business and commerce, particularly in the textile and manufacturing sectors. The community also had a strong tradition of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Challenges: In 2012, the Ismaili community in Syria was facing significant challenges due to the ongoing Syrian Civil War. Many Ismailis had fled their homes and were living in refugee camps or urban areas, where they struggled to access basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare. The community's infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, was also severely damaged or destroyed.

International Response: The international community, including the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), provided humanitarian assistance to the Ismaili community in Syria during this period. The AKDN, which is a network of development agencies founded by the Aga Khan, provided emergency aid, including food, shelter, and medical care, to affected Ismailis and other Syrian communities.

Current Situation: Today, the Ismaili community in Syria continues to face significant challenges, including displacement, poverty, and limited access to basic services. However, the community remains resilient and is working to rebuild and recover in the aftermath of the conflict.