In an effort to address the ongoing humanitarian crises in Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan, the Austrian federal government has committed €6 million from the Foreign Disaster Fund under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Austrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement on Wednesday, highlighting the severe crises affecting Syria and the region. The protracted conflict in Syria has forced millions of people to flee to neighboring countries, where they have become dependent on humanitarian assistance. Additionally, the statement noted that the global food crisis has been exacerbated by the Russian attack on Ukraine and the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in February.
The statement emphasized the destructive impact of wars and conflicts on the dreams and hopes of entire generations, particularly in Syria and its neighboring countries. Syrians have long been compelled to seek refuge in countries like Lebanon and Jordan, where the humanitarian situation has significantly worsened.
Werner Kogler, the Austrian Vice Chancellor, underscored the enduring bloodshed in Syria, which has lasted for twelve years, resulting in over 15 million people, including seven million children, in dire need of humanitarian aid. The conflict in Syria has led to the displacement of 6.8 million people within Syria and another 5.2 million in the region. The widespread destruction caused by the violent earthquake in northwestern Syria has further exacerbated the situation.
Austria’s commitment of €6 million aims to provide much-needed humanitarian support to alleviate the suffering of those affected by these crises, emphasizing the importance of international assistance in addressing the ongoing challenges in the region.
