Crisis in north-west Syria reaches 'horrifying new level' - UN Humanitarian Chief
New York, 17 February 2020
The crisis in north-west Syria has reached a horrifying new level.
We now believe 900,000 people have been displaced since 1 December, the vast majority women and children.
They are traumatized and forced to sleep outside in freezing temperatures because camps are full. Mothers burn plastic to keep children warm. Babies and small children are dying because of the cold.
The violence in northwest Syria is indiscriminate. Health facilities, schools, residential areas, mosques and markets have been hit. Schools are suspended, many health facilities have closed. There is a serious risk of disease outbreaks. Basic infrastructure is falling apart.
We are now receiving reports that settlements for displaced people are being hit, resulting in deaths, injuries and further displacement.
A huge relief operation, across the border from Turkey is under way, but it is overwhelmed. The equipment and facilities being used by aid workers are being damaged. Humanitarian workers themselves are being displaced and killed.
The biggest humanitarian horror story of the 21st Century will only be avoided if Security Council members, and those with influence, overcome individual interests and put a collective stake in humanity first. The only option is a ceasefire.
ENDS
For further information, please contact:
In New York, Zoe Paxton, [email protected], + 1 917 297 1542
In Geneva, Jens Laerke, [email protected], +41 79 472 9750
