On February 6, 2023, a powerful earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale hit the border area of two countries. The disaster resulted in more than 50,000 fatalities in Turkey and an additional 5,900 deaths in Syria, leaving thousands more wounded.

Martin Griffiths, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, stated that many families are still struggling to recover from the aftermath of the disaster. The survivors continue to experience the pain and emotional distress caused by the terrifying events.

Today, we are once again thinking of those who survived and those who lost loved ones. We continue to pledge our efforts in providing humanitarian aid to those in need.

The catastrophe worsened an existing severe humanitarian emergency in Syria, with approximately 16.7 million individuals requiring aid in 2024. Additionally, there are 1.75 million Syrian refugees in areas of Türkiye that were affected by the earthquake.

In both nations, entire societies were demolished and numerous structures – such as educational institutions, medical facilities, places of worship – were annihilated or significantly harmed.

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There have been new and pressing reports regarding health needs.

The aftermath of the disaster will have long-lasting effects, as many individuals are still residing in temporary housing, according to the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO).

The spokesperson for the health agency, Tarik Jasarevic, stated that the earthquake in Turkey has resulted in immediate and pressing health needs for both refugees and the local population.

During a press briefing at the UN Office at Geneva (UNOG), the speaker stated that the disaster had caused disruption to various health services such as maternal and newborn care, vaccination, management of non-communicable diseases, mental health support, and disability and rehabilitation services.

The earthquake in Syria struck areas that were already struggling from the 13-year-long crisis caused by conflict. This crisis has resulted in frequent displacement, which has led to issues with food, disease, and a weakened healthcare system, according to the speaker.

The delivery of health services for maternal and child health, prevention of cholera and other outbreaks, physical rehabilitation, mental health and psychosocial support is being carried out by WHO and their health partners.

According to Mr. Jasarevic, the assistance from the global community is essential for the WHO and its partners to sustain the provision of necessary healthcare in Syria.

Long-term solutions are necessary for refugees.

The UNHCR has provided various forms of aid, such as psychological support, housing, financial assistance, and other forms of assistance, to those affected by the crisis in Syria.

In Turkey, the agency assisted the Government-led response by distributing more than three million relief items such as tents, containers, hygiene kits, bedding, and warm clothing to refugees and local residents in temporary accommodation centers.

At a press briefing at UNOG, spokesperson Shabia Mantoo stated that while UNHCR is grateful for the prompt and generous aid provided by donors, they are still seeking ongoing assistance to meet urgent humanitarian needs.

She stated that we are also urging for an increase in opportunities for refugees to resettle in order to improve the sharing of responsibility with Turkey. This is especially important for the most vulnerable refugees who need longer-term solutions and a new beginning in a different location.

Source: news.un.org