Whilst the world turns its attention to how Europe is dealing with its refugee crisis, Concern Worldwide says the word “crisis” is inappropriate when compared with the catastrophe that is taking place in Syria and its neighbours. The reality is that only 3 per cent of Syrian refugees have managed to make it to Europe. The vast majority (7.6 million people) are displaced internally in Syria. The rest (a further 4 million) are literally living hand to mouth in camps located in Turkey, Jordan and Lebanon.
Syria’s neighbours hit the worst
Lebanon is tiny with a population of 4.4 million that has to deal with a massive 1.2 million Syrian refugees. Rather unsurprisingly it is struggling and the resources of the country which is just two thirds the size of Yorkshire are buckling under the pressure. Despite its small size the country has shown its solidarity with the Syrian refugees and has offered safety and shelter to its neighbours who have suffered from the violence which has forced them to flee their homes.
Crisis funding has been cut
Despite the fact that refugees in the Lebanese camps are safe, conditions are far from ideal. Refugees are forced to live in tents and prevented from working which means they cannot earn a living. The UN World Food Programme lacks funding and as a result has had to cut rations for those that have been registered for them from US$30 a month to $13 per person.
Massive appeal launched
The UN has launched a massive appeal for $7.4 billion to fund its response to the conflict in Syria, which is its largest appeal ever. The appeal however remains chronically under-funded and is $4.7 billion short. The government of the United Kingdom has provided £1 billion in aid and the Prime Minister David Cameron is correct in urging other countries in Europe they should do more. Aid should be given out of a sense of a humanitarian duty rather than because these countries wanting to keep their borders protected. One refugee said it was better to risk dying quickly on a boat to Europe instead of slowly dying where they are sitting.
Concern Worldwide working hard to make a difference
Concern Worldwide says this situation simply cannot continue and has joined many other organisations in helping people inside Syria by providing them with food and clean water. The agency is also working in refugee camps in Lebanon and Turkey by providing basic household needs, education for children and food. Whilst this does provide some relief, it is far from a solution to the problem.
Political solution needed
Making sure the crisis response is adequately funded is only one part of the international community’s obligation. As long as conflict is occurring in Syria, the refugee problem will continue and the number of refugees will increase. The situation will only be stabilised when peace breaks out and therefore a political solution is desperately needed. Without the international will to push for a political settlement to the crisis, there will be no end to this appalling crisis.
