Uncovering the Tragic Disappearances of Children in Syria: The Dark Side of a Global Charity

Tue Sep 30 2025 06:52:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

An investigation into the role of SOS Children's Villages and its connections to the Assad regime sheds light on the heartbreaking stories of mothers searching for their missing children amid the chaos of the Syrian civil war.

Amid the fall of the Assad regime, many parents, including Reem al-Kari, continue to search for their missing children, with over 3,700 children unaccounted for. Investigations reveal that SOS Children's Villages operated under direct links to the regime, raising concerns about the organization's practices and record-keeping. Whistleblowers have detailed a network of orphanages used to house politically vulnerable children, complicating the searches for families like Reem's, who are left with uncertainty and frustration as they navigate a broken system for reunification.

Uncovering the Tragic Disappearances of Children in Syria: The Dark Side of a Global Charity

6 hours ago

...

Reem al-Kari and her cousin Lama are searching through dozens of photos of children spread out on a desk, trying to find any resemblance to Reem's missing son, Karim. The desperate search reflects the plight of thousands of families in Syria, as over 3,700 children remain unaccounted for like Karim since they disappeared amid the grievous civil conflict. Investigative reports reveal that the children's shelter they are visiting, Lahan Al Hayat, has deeply troubling ties with the Assad regime.