Having in mind the great results of 2017, Baytna Syria started 2018 with energy to achieve even better and more impactful results. However, the year provided to be more challenging than expected. First of all, Baytna Syria worked on optimizing its structure by reducing 7 positions to ensure a lean, cost efficient and strong performing organization. The new Org chart will be as [in the report]. Attracting and retaining talent remained a challenge throughout the year.

However, the biggest challenge in 2018 remained the continued loss of territory inside Syria and the accompanying cessation of activities and forced displacements of our colleagues and partners to the North of Syria. The biggest two impacts on our operations were from the massive displacements from and loss of Eastern Ghouta in Damascus suburbs and Daraa. The impact on our grants program has been significant with a 30% reduction in total amount awarded compared to 2017. On the other hand, our capacity building program grow by 16% as we intensified training on advocacy and campaigning.