Headline:
Rode Kruis wil vijf miljoen Syriërs helpen met terugkeer naar gewoonde gebieden
Article:
The Red Cross has set an ambitious goal to assist at least five million Syrians in the coming years who are returning to their home areas, either from abroad or within the country. This significant operation requires a budget of 130 million euros, given the extensive destruction both of homes and the country’s infrastructure.
"Syrians will rebuild their homes, but our focus is on creating the necessary conditions," explains Derk Segaar, Head of International Aid at the Red Cross. "We expect the funds to support people for three to five years, providing essential assistance such as food, shelter, medical care, and water supply."
The Red Cross aims to provide psychosocial support alongside these core needs. In December, rebels seized the majority of the country, forcing President Assad to flee to Russia. After thirteen years of civil war, many Syrians face immense challenges in restarting their lives, particularly those who were displaced and are now returning to a country they barely recognize.
Currently, the Syrian Red Crescent Moon is one of the largest aid organizations operating in Syria. With around 9000 volunteers and hundreds of paid staff, they play a crucial role in delivering mobile clinics to areas with destroyed hospitals, and providing essential information, such as warning people about the dangers of unexploded ordnance.
The number of Syrians who have returned from abroad is not yet clear. However, it was announced on December 24th that approximately 25,000 Syrians had returned to their homeland from Turkey. Since the conflict began, an estimated six million Syrians have fled to neighboring countries, with the majority seeking refuge in Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq.
As Syrians commence their journey back home, the Red Cross is committed to supporting them through this challenging transition period.
