UN continued awarding millions in Syria contracts to firms with Assad-era links after regimeThe United Nations continued awarding millions of dollars in contracts to companies with documented ties to the former Syrian government even after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s rule, raising fresh concerns about transparency, accountability, and the challenges of rebuilding Syria’s economy during its political transition. The continued presence of these firms reflects a broader strategy reportedly adopted by Syria’s new authorities following Assad’s departure. The UN country team in Syria acknowledged that changes had occurred within the private security sector after the political transition. The issue extends beyond private security companies. The continuation of UN contracts with companies formerly associated with Assad’s political and business network demonstrates how deeply intertwined humanitarian operations remain with Syria’s existing economic structures.