AT the closing of the Geneva II peace talks, CARE remains deeply concerned about the plight of more than ten million Syrians who are in need of humanitarian aid, both within Syria and throughout the region.
CARE acknowledges that the two opposing sides came together at the discussion table, but is disappointed at the lack of progress in resolving the conflict and securing humanitarian access to people in need.
Megan Chisholm, CARE Emergency Manager said: “The plight of millions of Syrians must be seen as a catalyst to find a resolution to the conflict. With every day that passes without a peace settlement, more Syrians are being pushed deeper into hunger and poverty. We must ensure that everyone continues to push for an end to the suffering of millions of ordinary Syrians who have lived in misery far too long.
‘Within Syria, more than six million people have been displaced from their homes and accessing those in need is increasingly difficult. The international community must therefore do everything in its power to halt armed conflict and enable unhindered humanitarian access.”
In addition to those in need within Syria, more than 2.4 million refugees have fled to neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Lebanon. Women who have fled the violence alone, and who have little access to income or resources, are amongst the most vulnerable and are falling deeper into poverty as they struggle to cover basic needs such as rent and healthcare.
“Every day brings more death and more communities are torn apart. This is the worst humanitarian crisis in decades, and the millions affected will continue paying a heavy price until progress is made,’ Ms Chisholm added.
CARE welcomes that further talks are scheduled to take place in ten days and urge all those involved to seek further progress to improve the humanitarian situation and to reach a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
CARE Australia is an international humanitarian aid organisation fighting poverty, with a special focus on working with women and girls to bring lasting change to their communities.
To support CARE’s Syrian refugee crisis appeal, visit www.care.org.au/syria or call 1800 020 046.
Source: CARE Australia
