Millions of refugees and internally displaced people around the world may face cuts in humanitarian aid in the coming cold weather, and increased support for these people is needed. The warning was issued by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
UNHCR has published a report outlining the difficulties faced by millions of people forced to flee their homes amid insufficient funding for humanitarian programs ahead of winter.
“With temperatures already beginning to drop in many regions, millions of refugees and internally displaced people are facing harsh winter conditions with much less relief amid dwindling humanitarian supplies. “Many have little left to protect themselves from the bitter cold,” the report said.
The report found that UNHCR has launched a global winter fundraising campaign to help displaced families and returnees in affected areas meet their immediate needs in the coming months.
It also draws attention to the fact that many countries have cut aid this year. The role of private donors and citizens is becoming more important than ever – their contribution can save lives, UNHCR emphasized.
According to the report, UNHCR plans to raise at least $35 million, which will be used to repair destroyed houses, insulate housing, as well as provide heating for children and the elderly, purchase medicines and hot meals.
The report also calls on the world for support to meet the winter needs of refugees and displaced people particularly in the Middle East.
“Displaced families do not have to face the winter alone.”
UNHCR External Affairs Director Dominique Hyde drew attention to falling temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere, as well as rapidly declining funding.
“Displaced families do not have to face the winter alone. Our teams are working to protect refugees from the cold, but we are running out of time and resources. We need more funding to make the lives of thousands of people at least a little more bearable,” said Hyde, whose words are quoted in the report.