The latest vintage of data on UN procurements covering 2023 has just been released. A quick look at the figures for Syria suggests two positive developments:

• The share of procurements from suppliers that the UN withholds their identities has fallen, from 17% in 2022 to only 5%.

• Procurements have also fallen by 17% YoY. In typical circumstances, we would want to see as many procurements from within the country as possible to stimulate the local economy. In the Syrian context, however, and in light of the endemic diversion of aid, this is a welcome development.