World Vision calls on the organisers of a proposed Syrian peace summit to swiftly set a date and map out a clear agenda to advance a political resolution.
With more than 6.8 million people in Syria now in need of humanitarian assistance, it is critical the international community unites to halt the growing death toll and stop the refugee crises in neighbouring countries further escalating.
Syrians fleeing the conflict are facing ever more desperate situations, with more than 1.5 million Syrians living in appalling conditions in neighbouring countries including Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Iraq.
World Vision Australia is working to meet the humanitarian needs of the almost 400,000 refugees in Lebanon, and is poised to expand this assistance into Jordan. That assistance has included food vouchers, supplying hygiene kits, water and sanitation services, and clothing.
World Vision has also been assisting children who have witnessed or experienced atrocities by providing psycho-social support in child-friendly spaces.
“World Vision keenly anticipates the announcement of a date for peace talks that have been proposed by Russia and the US,” World Vision Australia’s head of Humanitarian and Emergency Affairs Anthea Spinks said. “It is imperative that the talks cover the humanitarian situation within Syria, and allow for the negotiation of safe and unimpeded access for aid agencies to deliver life-saving assistance inside Syria.”
Syrian authorities have limited the number of groups allowed to deliver humanitarian assistance in Syria, and restricted the operations of those that do.
World Vision applauds the Australian Government for consistently raising humanitarian concerns on the United Nations Security Council and for urging other Member States to address the immediate needs of the Syrian population inside and outside the country.
After more than two years of conflict, the crisis is straining the essential infrastructure and services of countries neighbouring Syria, as refugee numbers increase by the day.
World Vision urgently needs funds to continue its refugee response.
To donate to the Syrian Refugee Crisis Appeal call 13 32 40 or go to www.worldvision.com.au
Media contact: Kris Gough 0481 005 468 / kris.gough@worldvision.com.au