UK for UNHCR launches urgent appeal in response to earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria 

People search for survivors under the rubble of a collapsed building in the Al-Aziziyeh neighborhood of Aleppo, Syria, following two powerful earthquakes that struck the region on 6 February. © UNHCR/Hameed Maarouf

07/02/2023

Following the powerful earthquakes that have struck in south-eastern Türkiye, near the border with Syria, UK for UNHCR has launched an urgent appeal for funds so that UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, can respond and deliver essential support for people affected by these deadly quakes.

The two major earthquakes have killed thousands of people and devastated the homes and lives of many more, including many refugees and displaced people living in the region.

On top of the devasting shocks, harsh winter weather with snow and icy winds is expected to make conditions even more challenging.

UNHCR teams in Syria and Türkiye are responding where needed, in support of government efforts.

In Syria, UNHCR is already distributing emergency supplies, such as high-thermal blankets, mattresses and other lifesaving items, together with its partners, and is working to mobilise additional supplies for the region.

Emma Cherniavsky, Chief Executive of UK for UNHCR, said: “Thousands of people’s lives were devastated in one night when the first of these terrible earthquakes struck. Many families who had previously fled from conflict in Syria were already struggling to cope with the cold winter, and now are facing this new crisis.

“UNHCR is already working to help people affected by these earthquakes and assessing what more needs to be done. Every donation will help us to deliver essential aid to the people affected.”

People can donate and find out more by visiting this page

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NOTES TO EDITORS 

About UK for UNHCR 

UK for UNHCR is the UN Refugee Agency’s national charity partner for the UK. We build solidarity, create partnerships and raise funds across the UK to help deliver global humanitarian relief for refugees through UNHCR’s work. www.unrefugees.org.uk  

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, leads international action to protect people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution. It delivers life-saving assistance like shelter, food and water, helps safeguard fundamental human rights, and develops solutions that ensure people have a safe place to call home where they can build a better future. UNHCR also works to ensure that stateless people are granted a nationality. www.unhcr.org 

UK for UNHCR is a registered charity in England and Wales (registered charity number 1183415).