International Aid Mobilized After Devastating Earthquake in Turkey and Syria

 International Aid Mobilized After Devastating Earthquake in Turkey and Syria

The aftermath of the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on February 6, 2023, has prompted the Turkish Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD) to request international help through the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) and the European Union’s humanitarian program. The quake, which is believed to be the strongest to hit Turkey since 1939 and one of the strongest in the region in a century, has claimed the lives of at least 2,300 people, with thousands more injured. The winter storm in the region is exacerbating the disaster, with hundreds of thousands of people impacted.

In response, search and rescue teams have been dispatched to the affected areas, with nearly 1,000 volunteers deployed from Istanbul along with dogs, trucks, and aid. Despite the efforts of local authorities, the magnitude of the disaster has made it clear that additional support is needed. The request for international aid through the ERCC and EU humanitarian program highlights the seriousness of the situation and the urgent need for resources and support.

The ERCC is the European Union's platform for coordinating the response to natural and man-made disasters. It brings together relevant actors from across the EU, including the European Commission's humanitarian aid and civil protection department, member states, and humanitarian organizations. The ERCC provides a coordinated response to disasters, ensuring a rapid and effective response.

The EU humanitarian program, on the other hand, provides financial support for emergency aid operations and to cover the most urgent needs of those affected by crisis. The program operates in over 80 countries and provides funding for food, shelter, water, and sanitation, as well as medical and health assistance.

In conclusion, the request for international aid through the ERCC and EU humanitarian program is a crucial step towards addressing the immediate and long-term needs of those affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. The support of the international community will be crucial in mitigating the impact of the disaster and helping those in need.