A 7.8 magnitude earthquake and 7.5 aftershock rocked large parts of Türkiye and neighbouring Syria Monday local time, toppling thousands of buildings and damaging roads and telecommunication networks.
“We at UNHCR stand in solidarity with the people of Türkiye and Syria,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grande said. “[We] are ready to help provide urgent relief to the survivors through our field teams wherever possible.”
“UNHCR is deeply saddened to see the tragic aftermath of the earthquakes,” CEO of Australia for UNHCR Trudi Mitchell said. “We offer our condolences to those who have lost family, friends, and loved ones.”
The UN Refugee Agency is already distributing emergency supplies with partners in Syria, including high-thermal blankets, mattresses and other life-saving items. The agency is also working with partners and liaising with authorities in Türkiye to assess the needs and how UNHCR can help.
The emergency comes at a time when Syria and Türkiye are facing snow, rain and freezing conditions, which are hindering search and rescue efforts.
Türkiye hosts the world’s largest refugee population, with just over four million refugees and asylum-seekers under temporary and international protection, while Syria has been devastated by more than 11 years of civil war.
Australia for UNHCR is appealing for urgent support from Australians to help those affected.
“We’ve seen time and again how Australians have rallied behind those who have been devastated by natural disasters across the globe,” Ms Mitchell said.
“In coming days, the needs of people in Syria and Türkiye will continue to grow and UNHCR will be working tirelessly to help people with temporary shelters, blankets and other relief items and support. This life-saving work is only possible through the support and compassion of donors.”
Australia for UNHCR media contact:
Alex Fisher: [email protected] 0419 183 568
If you are covering this story, please encourage people to donate via: https://www.unrefugees.org.au/emergency-response/turkiye-and-syria-earthquake-emergency