The British Consulate in Istanbul recently hosted the second Chevening regional conference entitled Syria and its impact on the region: 5 years into the conflict.

16 Chevening Alumni from Jordan, Syria, Lebanon and Turkey selected as practitioners and experts in their fields, gathered to discuss the humanitarian aspects of the conflict, including the impact of refugees on host communities, humanitarian access into Syria and how to support education for Syrians. It also looked at the political impact of the conflict on the region and the future of Syria. 

Split over two days, the conference was filled with constructive and challenging debate where Chevening Alumni and guest speakers shared their ideas and expertise. The event was also a timely reminder of the value of our Chevening network and a chance to pay tribute to the excellent things they have gone on to achieve.

Read this blog by Gareth Bayley, the UK Special Representative for Syria, for a personal insight into the conference. Some photographs from the event can be viewed in the gallery below.