23/12/2024 |

Press release

IFRC pledges support for five million people in Syria as they return to destroyed homes and neighbourhoods

Damascus/Geneva, 23 December – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is racing to meet the needs of five million people across Syria as the country continues to grapple with one of the world's most complex crises.The IFRC has launched a 130 million CHF Emergency Appeal which will support the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) to deliver vital aid to communities across the country. This includes critical health care, urgently needed food and shelter supplies, cash assistance and psychological support for those experiencing trauma, and help to families trying to trace loved ones who have disappeared during the 13-year conflict.Many people are now on the move following the recent change of ruling power, either returning to Syria or travelling within Syria itself. Years of conflict have ravaged lives, toppled homes and destroyed livelihoods. What people will find on their return is not clear.IFRC Regional Director for MENA, Dr Hossam Elsharkawi said:“Entire towns and villages have been flattened in over a decade of hostilities; schools, hospitals, roads, and shops have been destroyed. Internally displaced people, those choosing to return to Syria and host communities need significant support to survive in an environment without basic services, shelter, jobs, and healthcare. “Our focus right now is on life-saving support for the population. SARC’s teams are providing critical care via ambulances, mobile clinics and health centres, and its branches are distributing essential supplies like food and water. We hope that in time, communities will be able to look to the future and start the road to recovery. We will be alongside them on that journey.”SARC is a national independent humanitarian institution with 14 branches, 64 active sub-branches, and over 9,000 volunteers. It is proving crucial to the humanitarian response in Syria.The IFRC Syria Complex Emergency Appeal, launched today, will support its activities and provide large-scale aid supplies and distributions, logistics and transport support, help restore shelter and livelihoods through cash and in-kind assistance, strengthen capacities of SARC branches, and provide technical support and coordination for at least 12 months. It will also enable support for National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in neighbouring countries, should the needs of people on the move from or to Syria change or grow in the coming months.For more information or to set up an interview contact: [email protected] London: Nichola Jones, +44 7715459956In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367 Hannah Copeland, +41 76 236 9109

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04/09/2024 |

Article

Echoes from the jungle: Unseen human stories from the Darién Gap

An unseen crisis is unfolding in the Darién jungle. Beneath the dense foliage of this tropical forest that links Colombia and Panama, hundreds of thousands of people are on the move – risking their lives in search of safety and opportunity.This journey is one of the most dangerous in the world. Countless risks await those who attempt it. And yet hundreds of thousands of people do it every year. A new exhibit of photographs and stories, produced by the IFRC, with funding from the European Union, tells their story — and the story of the people who provide life-saving support to them.Echoes from the junglefeatures photos taken by photojournalist Federico Rios, who journeyed through Darién in 2022 and 2023 on assignment for the New York Times, as well as photos taken by IFRC and Red Cross staff in the region. Here is a selection of photos from the exhibit and the stories behind them.To leave everything behind and walk into the jungleThe Darién is a remote, roadless area covering both Panamanian and Colombian territory, which is the only possible overland crossing between South and Central America. Spanning more than 60 miles of swamp, dense rainforest, fast-flowing rivers and mountains, the Darién jungle is as remarkable as it is inhospitable.Why cross the Darién jungle?Why would someone choose to attempt such a perilous journey? Economic collapse, political instability, intense violence and conflict, persecution, and limited legal pathways can all contribute to the decision. And often, compounding crises and challenges will force people to move.Dangers in the heart of the jungleThe harsh reality of the Darién jungle unfolds as we witness a woman, burdened with the weight of her small child, navigating through its unforgiving terrain (see photo above). The relentless heat and stifling humidity only add to the exhaustion felt by the women, children and men on the move.Counting every dropCrossing the Darién is not just a matter of hours. It can take days or even weeks depending on the time of the year. Access to food and water becomes increasingly scarce, especially for people travelling with minimal supplies. Unable to rely on water from streams and rivers due to contamination, they must carry their own supplies to sustain themselves on their journey.Facing diverse threatsThe Darién jungle is full of threats, some of which are deadly. Surging river crossings, poisonous snakes, paths marked only by the footsteps of those who were there before, and weather that can turn at any moment.Then there are the human threats – robbery, smuggling, human trafficking, physical and sexual violence – that are sadly all too common. Between 2018 and 2023, 258 people died in the Darién.People crossing the jungle are exposed to insect bites, infections, diarrhoea, dehydration, fractures, or skin injuries with no access to first aid before reaching the closest town. During the most difficult parts of their journey, their only consolation is to trust and support each other.Rainfall and rising riversThe Darién is characterized by numerous rivers, many of which flow through dense rainforest and mountainous terrain. However, they pose significant challenges to people attempting to cross them, especially during periods of heavy and frequent rainfall between May and December. As water levels rise rapidly and the rivers become more powerful, drowning poses a significant risk.At the edge of the jungle, worlds meetWhile many of the people who traverse this jungle are from South America, this journey is also used by people from around the world. In recent years, a growing number of migrants have arrived from far further afield including China, India, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Cameroon and Angola. For these people, the existing dangers of the Darién are heightened by cultural and linguistic barriers.Unprecedented numbersThe scale of migration through the Darién in recent decades is unprecedented. In a region with a relatively low population density, the passage of more than 500,000 people from different parts of the world in 2023 has brought additional challenges to local communities: this number is more than seven times the resident population.Because the Darién is a remote and protected area, basic resources and infrastructure such as clean water and waste collection services are scarce, heightening the environmental impact on the region as both local communities and groups of migrants face these challenges on a daily basis.Who are the people crossing the Darién and who are the people there to help?The reasons for travelling through this jungle are as varied as the people themselves – whether travelling alone, with family or with people they meet along the way. Here are some of their stories.Zidane's many talentsColombian by origin, Zidane is a multifaceted individual – a cultural manager, shortfilm producer, Red Bull competitor, freestyler, rapper, hairdresser, and baker. Despitehis vibrant artistic pursuits, he found himself compelled to migrate."We left my country because things were not going well there, there was no money,there was nothing. My [rapper] foundation had completed its cycle and I thought itwas a good idea to leave, but since I didn't have a passport, we decided to travelthrough the Darién jungle."Navil’s passportNavil* was asked what the most precious object he always carried with him was. Heanswered immediately: his passport. Without it he would not have been able to leave India, his country of origin, to attempt to reach the United States.*Name changed on requestKaren's reason for not giving upKaren’s son Dylan is her motivation for everything she does in life, her reason for not giving up during difficult times and especially now, when she has faced moments of danger and pain crossing through the jungle."Crossing the Darién is not easy. I don't recommend it to anyone. The danger there is not the animals, it's facing people who hurt you, who steal from you, who abuse both your body and the little you carry with you.”A symbol of hopeFor the people travelling through the Darién, the Red Cross is a symbol of hope on their difficult journey. In Panama, the IFRC and the Panamanian Red Cross, with support from the European Union, the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and other partners, have been responding to the needs of migrants crossing the Darién for several years.What’s been provided so far: The Red Cross response in numbersOur support during one of those years, 2023, offers a snapshot of the enormous needs and the very concrete support offered by Red Cross staff and volunteers. In that year, Red Cross provided migrants with more than 29.7 million litres of safe water, over 20,000 basic health care consultations, 2,000 first-aid services, and more than 24,500 maternal and child care services.They also facilitated more than 33,000 international calls so migrants could communicate with their loved ones. Staff and volunteers also provide information, an internet connection to allow contact with family members, and referrals to specialized services.Safe, welcoming and neutral spacesOnce through the jungle, people on the move can access support in camps, where they receive protection services and trusted information so they continue their journey as safely as possible. People can also find assistance at Humanitarian Service Points, run by the Panamanian Red Cross with support from the IFRC, the European Union, and other partners.

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07/05/2024 |

Article

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day: Lebanese Red Cross offers relief and a ray of hope for migrant shipwreck survivors

Every year, hundreds of people of Lebanese, Syrian and other nationalities set off from the shores of Lebanon on extremely perilous sea journeys in desperate search for a better life.These journeys often end up in tragedy: In September 2022, a boat carrying over 140 migrants leaving Lebanon sank off the coast of Tartus, Syria; many people drowned, while others went missing.In other cases, boats leaving Lebanon have been pushed back by authorities in countries of destination.Since 2019, Lebanon has been facing anevolving complex humanitarian crisis, with severe inflation, unemployment and deteriorating living conditions pushing people to leave the country.“People who usually take the decision to leave often tell us that they have nothing to lose, so they are willing to risk their lives in order to have a chance at a better life in another country,” says Alaa Ammar, Migration Lead and Protection Coordinator at the Lebanese Red Cross.Migrants who survive drowning incidents return to the shore suffering from exhaustion and in need of medical assistance. They often have a place to go to, or a relative to stay with, but they don’t have any money for transportation or to simply get by.Bringing services where needed mostRecognizing the needs of migrants who suffer the consequences of pushbacks from other countries and shipwrecks, the Lebanese Red Cross established mobile Humanitarian Service Points (HSPs) covering different locations along the Lebanese coast.These HSPs are safe, welcoming and strategically located spaces where migrants and displaced people can access reliable support from Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.“The Lebanese Red Cross’ mobile HSPs offer a variety of services based on the need and urgency of the situation,” says Alaa, who also oversees a program called Restoring Family Links that helps migrants reconnect with family members. Other services include emergency medical assistance, shelter, water, hygiene and sanitation services, relief items, food, psychosocial support, and transportation.Since their establishment, mobile HSPs have been deployed on more than eight occasions in Lebanon; this includes responses in Beirut, Tripoli and at the Syrian border.The most recent shipwreck incident occurred in December 2023, off the coast of the northern city of Tripoli, with Lebanese authorities rescuing 51 people, all of whom received emergency medical assistance from a Lebanese Red Cross mobile HSP.The critical factor: trustBut to deliver its life-saving assistance, the Lebanese Red Cross HSPs often rely on people’s trust, which is an essential component that allows the Red Cross Red Crescent movement to operate in local contexts around the world.“The trust that the Lebanese Red Cross has built with people in Lebanon over the years is very evident and is shown by survivors, who often say that they feel relieved when they see our emblem,” Alaa adds.The Lebanese Red Cross’ migration program, including HSPs, has been supported by the Middle East & North Africa Migration Network, a regional network that consists of 15 Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies, led by the IFRC regional office in collaboration with the ICRC and Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies from other regions.“The MENA Migration network was established to strengthen and share expertise and experiences to work with and for migrants, including refugees, their families, and host communities,” says Yasmin Hakim, Migration and Displacement Officer at the IFRC Middle East and North Africa Regional Office.“This year, the network plans to equip National Societies with the skills and leading training initiatives for their staff and volunteers on migration and HSPs to enhance their readiness and preparedness to assist migrants and displaced people.”--Click here to learn more about Migration and Displacement. For an overview of IFRC’s migration programs,click here.

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16/03/2024 |

Press release

IFRC and SOS MEDITERRANEE urgently call for a closer port of safety for survivors of Mediterranean tragedies

Marseille, Berlin, Milano, Budapest, GenevaTwo days after more than 60 people died on a raft in the Central Mediterranean, survivors from other rescues this week remain in limbo, far from an approved port of safety.The teams onboard Ocean Viking - a vessel chartered by SOS MEDITERRANEE and in partnership with the IFRC - operated four separate missions within a 48-hour period this week, rescuing 361 men, women, and children from perilous conditions at sea.One of the rescues was of 25 survivors from a raft on which more than 60 died before help arrived. Those 25 have now been disembarked. Two were medically evacuated by helicopter (despite all efforts, one subsequently died). After urgent calls for permission to land at the nearest port of safety, the other 23 survivors were transferred at the anchorage off the Sicilian port of Catania to land forurgent medicalcare.But 336 survivors from the other three rescues remain on board the Ocean Viking, which is now heading to Ancona, much further north.“These survivors need urgent care and that means getting them a port of safety as soon as possible” said Jennifer Vibert, IFRC Operations Manager. “Half of the survivors are very young – children or teenagers – many were found in an extremely fragile physical and mental state. The majority suffered severe dehydration and some had resorted to drinking seawater. Others sustained burns from the fuel and seawater mixed in the raft. Medical teams on board the Ocean Viking provided urgent medical care and provided critical hygiene items, food and water. But the survivors urgently need land-based care.”"Our hearts are heavy as we acknowledge the lives lost and the suffering endured. It is essential to understand what happened from the moment the boat departed up to the discovery of the survivors to prevent such a tragedy from happening again,” stated Soazic Dupuy, SOS MEDITERRANEE’s Director of Operations.The tragedies of this week further underscore the severity of the ongoing crisis in the Central Mediterranean Sea, the deadliest route for people on the move in the world. SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC remain committed to their joint life-saving mission at sea. The humanitarian needs in the region far exceed the existing response capacity, and restrictions on access to lifesaving assistance go against humanitarian principles and international maritime law.SOS MEDITERRANEE and the IFRC urge all States to prioritize sea rescue and to uphold maritime law and human rights along Europe’s southern sea border.For more information or to schedule an interview:IFRC:[email protected] Figanmese: +41 792022033Vusal Safarli: +994 555226716SOS Mediteranee:[email protected]: Alisha Vaya / +33 6 34 10 41 33 /[email protected]: Jean-Christophe Nougaret / +33 6 11 74 10 11 /[email protected]: Francesco Creazzo / +39 3478151131 /[email protected] Salvati/ +393332091366/[email protected]: Carine Fauchs / +41783079718 /[email protected] to the editor:Stories/perspectives from survivors:A man told one of our team members that he lost his wife and baby. The baby died within the first days, followed by the mother on the fourth day.Two helicopters had flown over them. They signed, hoping to be rescued, but nothing happened.Many survivors were suffering from multiple fuel burns that became infected, posing a significant risk of systemic infection and sepsis. Two survivors required IV antibiotics, and one exhibited warning signs of sepsis, requiring inpatient care.View photos from the rescue credited to SOS MediteraneeAbout the IFRCThe IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network. Its secretariat supports local Red Cross and Red Crescent action in 191 countries, bringing together more than 16 million volunteers for the good of humanity. The IFRC acts before, during and after disasters and health emergencies to meet the needs and improve the lives of vulnerable people.About SOS MEDITERRANEESOS MEDITERRANEE is a maritime and humanitarian organization for the rescue of people in distress at sea. It was founded by European citizens in 2015 and launched rescue operations in the Central Mediterranean in February 2016. Since then, the organization has assisted more than 38,000 people at sea. Over 9000 people were rescued by the Ocean Viking since she started operating in August 2019. The non-profit organization based in France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland, is mainly funded through donations.

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05/03/2024 |

Press release

With warmer temperatures approaching, IFRC braces for new year of danger on Central Mediterranean Sea migration route

Geneva/Rome, 5 March 2024:As Europe approaches spring and summer, the IFRC anticipates a surge in the number of migrants risking their lives on the dangerous Central Mediterranean Sea route. The tragic record of 2023, the deadliest year since 2017, IFRC fears for more deaths at sea. Leveraging the partnership with donors, IFRC is dedicated to mitigating as many tragedies as possible in the forthcoming months. Last year's toll, with over 2,500 reported dead or missing along this treacherous route — and possibly many more unreported cases — has significantly raised concerns for migrant safety. The trend of increased crossings during the warmer months signals a continued risk of perilous journeys.Driven by desperation and the absence of safer alternatives, numerous migrants embark on these hazardous voyages in overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels, seeking safety or a better future. Data from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reveals that nearly 23,000 individuals have lost their lives or gone missing on this route since 2014, with the total for the entire Mediterranean exceeding 29,000. The shipwreck off the coast of Greece on June 14 last year, where several hundred migrants are feared to have perished when their overloaded fishing boat capsized, exemplifies the dire risks involved.No other optionTurning a blind eye to this situation is simply not an option, and thanks to the support of donors such as Muslim World League, IFRC is able to take to the sea on board the search and rescue vessel Ocean Viking for another year. Since 2021, 5,693 people were rescued by this operation. Together with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and partner organisation SOS Mediterranee, IFRC will continue to support as many people in distress as possible with food and water, basic needs, medical care and psychosocial support.Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General of the IFRC, earlier this week on board the Ocean Viking in Syracuse, Italy, praised the donors and partners that make this operation possible:“The Ocean Viking has proven to be a beacon of hope in a vast, unforgiving sea. It is a collaboration that goes beyond saving lives; it also reflects a commitment to upholding the principles of solidarity and humanity. I greatly value our partnership with the Muslim World League, and others, who provide us the ability to save lives, together.”Coordinated approachThe operation on board the Ocean Viking is part of a larger effort of the IFRC network to support people on the move around the world throughout their journey. By providing food, water, first aid and other basic needs at so-called Humanitarian Service Points in countries along popular migration routes, the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies ensure that people can find aid along their journey. By not only running a Humanitarian Service Point on board the Ocean Viking, but also, for example, supporting migrants when they disembark in Europe, we ensure together that people find a sense of humanity along their journey.“As the global landscape continues to evolve due to the climate crisis, increasing disasters and crises, political instability, conflicts, pandemics, growing inequalities, advancements in technology and shifting economic and social spaces, we see how migration and displacement have taken on new dimensions. Existing challenges to people’s lives and livelihoods are being amplified all over the globe and compounding many of the reasons that drive them to migrate.”explained Chapagain in Italy. “We are committed to ensuring migrants, refugees, and other displaced people—no matter who they are and irrespective of their status—are safe, treated with dignity and have their rights respected, including along dangerous and deadly migration routes on land and at sea.”For more information, audio visual material or to coordinate an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Budapest:Julie Enthoven: +36 70 508 5702In Geneva:Tommaso Della Longa +41 79 708 4367Mrinalini Santhanam +41 76 381 5006

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04/03/2024 |

Article

Saving lives at sea: 'Something you don’t easily forget'

When people step foot on board the Ocean Viking humanitarian rescue ship, their lives have been hanging by a thread.As the IFRC's operations manager aboard the Ocean Viking, Sara Mancinelli's job is to ensure the distressed people receive the critical care and attention they need.She gives a unique first-person glimpse into the daily life on this floating humanitarian service point at sea.No one can forget“I don’t think anyone can forget their first rescue on board the Ocean Viking. Actually, saving people’s lives, that is something that you don’t forget easily.When spotting a boat in distress, you know what this means for the people on board. Sometimes they have been drifting at sea for days, without food, drinking water and life jackets. Most boats are overcrowded, and people have to hold on for their lives. They know that if they fall into the water, that will most probably be the end. And that every year, thousands of people drown during the same journey.When the Ocean Viking picks people up in such circumstances, there is immense relief. Most people cry when they come on board the ship, or they kiss the floor and fall into our arms. Other people just get very, very quiet, knowing what they have just escaped. The first thing we always tell people is: ‘You are safe.'The first friendly face in a long timeMost survivors who come on board the Ocean Viking have gone through a difficult time. Not only in their days at sea, but also before that. Some have experienced hardship in their country of origin, especially if they come from conflict-afflicted areas.And they have gone through a dangerous journey to reach the shores of the Mediterranean. After a while on board, people start telling us about their journey. These are stories about human trafficking, blackmail, sexual violence, torture and sometimes even slavery. A lot of people tell us: ‘You are the first friendly face that I have seen in a long time.’Being there for peopleDuring their time on board, we do as much as possible to support people. First, we give them dry clothes and food and water. And we provide medical assistance, as many people got hurt during their journey or haven’t had access to medical care in months.We make people as comfortable as possible. There is a shelter exclusively dedicated to women and children, and one for men. And there is room to relax, talk, pray and heal.And of course, we provide psychosocial support. We see that this is much needed, for adults and children. Some minors travel without their parents, some travel with family members that are extremely traumatized. We comfort them as much as possible by playing games and providing colors and toys.Long journey aheadDuring their time on board, most survivors start to realize that their journey is not over. When they arrive to Europe, new challenges lie ahead. We try to prepare survivors for this. We provide information about what to expect when they come to shore, and where to find help. If people have specific needs, for example if they need protection or medical care, we refer them to experts and authorities on land for a follow-up.For migrants who get rescued at sea, their time at the Ocean Viking is only a small part of a long and difficult journey. But it is a journey in which people are often not seen as human beings, treated as a problem, a number, or even as a criminal. So for just these few days, we are doing everything we can to make sure people feel safe, heard, and seen. Because in the end, we are all human.”

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10/10/2023 |

Article

5 top tips on maintaining mental health from Red Cross first-responder volunteers

We all know that mental well-being is as important as physical health. But how often do we actively take care of our mental health? What can we do to support ourselves and others? Why not ask some experts? People whose job is to take care of others during and after crises and emergencies. We decided to ask volunteers from a Honduran Red Cross team that provides medical and mental health services to migrants at a mobile Humanitarian Service Point in Danlí, 92 km southeast of Tegucigalpa. To do their job, they must take care of themselves. After all, how can you support others if you’re not processing your own emotions in a productive, healthy way? Here are 5 tips they offered that can help everyone - even if you are not a volunteer - to take care of your mental health, anywhere, at any time: 1. A little help from close ones: Individual and team care. In emotionally intense situations, it is important to rely on work teams, friends and family. You don't have to face it alone. Sharing experiences and reflecting together helps us deal with the emotional impact of daily work. "In the team, we are always trying to fill ourselves with good energy and good attitude towards difficult situations. We always try to take care of ourselves physically, and above all to take care of our mental health. Because we see many cases, aggressive people, without self-control. In childhood care, we can handle a lot of stress, a lot of anxiety, and we try to understand but also to take care of ourselves." Scarlet Chirinos Honduran Red Cross It is necessary to allow yourself to feel and validate all emotions in order to heal, even if they make you feel uncomfortable. Engaging in self-care practices that involve physical activity and moments of relaxation, as well as resting and spending time in nature, or with people you love, can also help you through painful situations. 2. Someone to lean on: Seek professional support. Access to information and psychosocial support resources can save lives. Despite the fact that close to one billion people in the world suffer from a mental disorder, stigma and social difficulties make it difficult to promptly seek help and mental health care. "We rely on our own team, we reflect and share the experiences we have lived through, and that helps us to provide emotional support. But beyond that, there is also a team of mental health professionals that we can rely on." Ángel Zelaya Honduran Red Cross Talking about your emotions is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. You may be struggling with what you feel is part of the human condition and there is no shame in doing so. You are just a person going through a difficult time and doing the best you can. There will always be someone who understands what is happening to you.You can always ask for help. 3. I hear you: Practice active listening Just as sharing your feelings is beneficial to your mental health. Listening to others in an attentive and respectful way, validating their experiences and emotions, can strengthen your relationships and bonds. It can also provide valuable emotional support, and even more so during crisis and emergencies. "For me, this time I have being a volunteer has been very eye-opening. Gettingclose todifferent realities and learning what people live through along the migratory route, helped me grow as a mental health professional." Scarlet Chirinos Honduran Red Cross By practicing active listening, you develop empathy and open yourself to know realities different from your own. When you see that someone is suffering and having a hard time, let's listen, validate, support and, if possible, accompany them to seek professional help. 4. Keep learning: Look for useful resources. Training is a powerful tool for understanding and addressing mental health challenges and identifying symptoms and situations that can lead to stress and anxiety. "In the Red Cross, I was trained from the basics. I learned what the Red Cross was, safety measures for field work, the meaning of our uniforms. I also received training in Psychological First Aid, Restoring Family Links and Protection, Gender and Inclusion. "We know that in the field we need this knowledge to provide adequate care and to protect ourselves, which is part of the Red Cross training." Yaritza Herrera Honduran Red Cross Don't miss the opportunity to strengthen your mental health knowledge and learn how to help yourself and people around you. Visit our mental health page to find more resources. 5. Support others - support yourself: Volunteer service By supporting others in times of crisis and emergencies, you not only provide support to those in need, you can also find meaning and satisfaction in your life. "You see on the news what the people who pass through the Darien go through, they come with their complications, there are people who have even died on the way.... And to see the joy of the adults, when we take care of their children, when they have their medicines and the possibility of healing their wounds, is the most valuable thing. People always leave grateful, giving you blessings". Leonardo Baca Honduran Red Cross The advice and practices shared by Scarlet, Angel, Yaritza and Leonardo show that taking care of our mental health is essential to facing life's challenges and providing effective supportto those in need. Access to mental health services must go hand-in-hand with actions that guarantee basic needs for all people, whoever they are and wherever they are. There is no health without mental health.

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22/09/2023 |

Press release

SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC alerts the Mediterranean deadly as ever as Pope Francis arrives in Marseille to commemorate lives lost at sea

Marseille, Friday, 22 September -Almost ten years after a devastating shipwreck off Lampedusa claimed the lives of more than 360 men, women and children on 3 October 2013, the central Mediterranean is as deadly as ever. During his current visit to Marseille, Pope Francis will once again alert the global public to the humanitarian crisis unfolding at Europe’s southern border by commemorating those missing at sea. In a press conference onboard civil rescue ship Ocean Viking this morning, SOS MEDITERRANEE and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) attested to the heartbreaking situation for people trying to cross the Mediterranean in search of safety. Jérôme, Deputy Search and Rescue Coordinator onboard Ocean Viking said: “Last month, we witnessed firsthand the lack of resources to save lives in the central Mediterranean. We conducted the largest ever rescue operation on the Ocean Viking. In 36 hours of nonstop operations, we rescued 623 people. It was clear that there were more people at risk of losing their lives than we could assist. The work we do is vital, but we cannot do it alone.” The humanitarian needs in the central Mediterranean have been exacerbated by the growing food insecurity in Africa, the conflicts and recent disasters that have struck Libya and other Northern African countries in recent weeks. With no alternative to seek safety, there is no reason to believe that people will stop attempting to cross the Mediterranean. The main objective of search and rescue efforts is to bring people to safe places where they can access their rights. SOS MEDITERRANEE and the IFRC urge all States to prioritize sea rescue and to uphold maritime law and human rights along Europe’s southern sea border. Xavier Castellanos, IFRC Under Secretary General for National Society Development and Operations Coordination said: “IFRC cannot turn a blind eye. Across the globe, people on the move face significant risks to their lives, dignity, and rights. This is a humanitarian imperative that we all have an obligation to address and is why IFRC is responding both on land and at sea. Our humanitarian work aboard the Ocean Viking is a vital part of our mission of protection and alleviating human suffering.” Sophie Beau, co-founder of SOS MEDITERRANEE and General Director of SOS MEDITERRANEE France said: “The unfathomable death toll in the Mediterranean this year could have been prevented if the political will was there. Migration deterrence policies and obstruction of civil sea rescue have only led to more human suffering. As a prominent moral and global figure as well as European Head of State, Pope Francis will use his visit to Marseille to recall the moral imperative underlying the laws and conventions that apply at sea: no one in distress should be left to drown.Ten years after the shipwreck off Lampedusa, we urgently call for global sea rescue missions and for the recognition of the valuable support of humanitarian Search and Rescue organisations.” Note to the editor As of 2021, the IFRC has partnered with SOS MEDITERRANEE onboard the Ocean Viking. This partnership builds on the strength of both organizations: SOS MEDITERRANEE’s sea rescue expertise and IFRC’s longstanding experience in providing relief, protection and health-related assistance to people in need. Find out more here. For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact: SOS MEDITERANEE Press contact: Méryl Sotty Media Manager – +33 6 11 74 10 11 [email protected] IFRC Press contact: Edgar Zuniga Europe Communications Delegate – +36 20 337 7221 [email protected]

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15/09/2023 |

Article

From north to south: Honduran Red Cross accompanies thousands of migrants on their return home

Máximo and George are two brothers from Honduras who, faced with unemployment and a lack of opportunities, took the difficult decision to migrate northwards in search of a better future. Their journey towards their dream life, however, did not go as planned."We were stranded, with no money, with nothing, but we kept walking. We had no money for the bus, nothing, but we decided to take the risk. On the way we were assaulted and we were extorted, we almost lost our lives. They pointed a gun at us and told us ‘you pay us, or else we’ll put you in a body bag'," explains George.Stories like this are sadly all too common along the Central American migratory route. Violence from criminal gangs, rising unemployment and cost of living, among other reasons, are all encouraging people to migrate—not only from south to north, but also from north to south.Honduras is a territory of origin, return and transit for migrants. Every day, hundreds of people, sometimes thousands, leave the country. Many others cross it on their way to North America, and many others return to the country when they encounter the same problems abroad that they were trying to flee at home.In 2023, more than 56,000 Honduran migrants like Maximo and George returned to their country, equivalent to over 150 people per day."One of the reasons people return, according to the interviews we have conducted, is to be reunited with their families,” explains Nicol Palacios, Protection Assistant at the Centre for Attention to Returned Migrants (CAMR) in Omoa, north-west Honduras. “The challenges they face on the migration route have a great influence: suffering violence, the long distances they have to walk, spending the night in the street, not having food or at least not the food they are used to in their country. Tiredness is also another reason why they stop; and if they feel dejected, they decide to turn themselves in to the authorities so that they can be returned to Honduras,” she adds.From the Corinto border between Honduras and Guatemala, the Honduran Red Cross (HRC) transports migrants and returnees to the CAMR in Omoa, where they receive support from staff and volunteers from the Red Cross and National Migration Institute. "This Centre gives returnees the opportunity to feel a warm embrace when they return to their country", says Mario Alberto Ávila, Director of the CAMR.Meanwhile, further south in the small town of Belen, the Honduran Red Cross partners with the local government to run a care centre for unaccompanied migrant children and families returning home."All the cases in the centre are tough to listen to, all of them. People come in frustrated and upset because they did not achieve their objective of reaching their destination,” says Gabriela Oviedo from the Honduran Red Cross who runs the care centre.“What has had the greatest impact on us is looking after babies who are only days or months old; children who don't even know how to speak. We welcome them at the centre and give them the loving treatment they deserve until we can hand them over to their waiting family members," she adds. Saving lives and addressing the needs of migrants along the Central America migratory route is becoming increasingly urgent. The IFRC's priority in the region is to provide people on the move with quality assistance tailored to the specific needs of the most vulnerable groups—regardless of people’s migration status or the reasons why they’re on the move.For Marilyn, a young mother from Honduras, it was losing her job due to the COVID-19 pandemic and then losing her home in floods caused by Hurricanes Eta and Iota in 2021 that pushed her to seek a better life elsewhere.But being separated from her two children, who she left with her mother, was not easy. Marilyn attempted to head to North America several times, but never made it to her destination. During her migration attempts she experienced muggings, hunger, breaking her feet, and a boat capsizing."My dream is in about 5 years to have my own house. To set up my own business and for my children to be well, to put them to school. I want them to have better opportunities than I had", says Marilyn.The IFRC network strives to provide assistance and protection to returnees like Marilyn, Máximo and George who are looking for a better future. From July 2022 to May 2023, our emergency appeal addressing the migration crisis in Mexico and Central America has enabled the Honduran Red Cross to provide health services, psychosocial support, water and sanitation services, and cash assistance to more than 59,000 people.As the number of people on the move through Central America continues to rise, the challenge is daunting.But we will continue to defend migrants’ rights and dignity and provide them with vital humanitarian services—whoever and wherever they are. --Learn more about the IFRC's work supporting people on the move.

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22/08/2023 |

Article

Saving lives at sea: Ocean Viking ship completes its largest ever rescue in the Central Mediterranean

“I want people to understand that when someone makes this kind of journey it’s because they have no other choice.” These are the words of Ahmed Bentalha, the IFRC Protection Team Leader on board the Ocean Viking rescue ship. Staffed by teams from SOS Méditerranée and IFRC, the ship patrols the Central Mediterranean – one of the most active and dangerous migration routes in the world – to rescue and support people who become stranded at sea. Between 10-12 August, Ahmed and his fellow Ocean Viking crewmembers completed the ship’s largest ever rescue operation – saving 623 people from unsafe vessels within 36 hours and helping them safely disembark in Italy. “The first rescue began at around 8:00am on Thursday 10 August. The second came the following evening at midnight, and after that it was rescue after rescue for the whole day. It was a very hard and intense 36 hours. We didn’t get to sleep at all,” explains Ahmed. “None of the boats we responded to were seaworthy. The people on board were very distressed. They didn’t have life jackets and were packed into the boats with no space to move. Some boats had started taking on water and people were rushing to get it out.” The rescues were carried out by SOS Méditerranée search and rescue teams using RHIBs (Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats) to bring survivors to the Ocean Viking. “We got them all on board. There were people everywhere. Some had been at sea for a few hours, others for four to five days. We could see the difference in how tired they looked,” says Ahmed. “Physically, most people weren’t in too bad a condition. But some were suffering from fuel burns which happen when fuel leaks from the engine and mixes with sea water, causing a chemical reaction which burns the skin.” Once on board, IFRC teams provide different humanitarian services to those rescued. The medical team, which includes a doctor, nurse and midwife, attends to people’s health needs, while a logistics expert takes care of providing food and essential items. The protection team, led by Ahmed, registers migrants on board the ship, completes age and family assessments and helps them get in contact with their families. “Most people we rescued in this operation were from Sudan, but we also had people from Guinea, Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Pakistan and other countries. We had people of 26 different nationalities in total – mostly men and women, but also more than 100 children and ten small babies,” says Ahmed. The protection team also talks to survivors about international protection and their rights. And for people needing specialist care, such as survivors of sexual violence or unaccompanied minors, Ahmed contacts authorities and other NGOs on land – in this case, in Italy – to arrange additional support once they disembark. It’s been a trying summer so far for Ahmed and the Ocean Viking. Though winter is a more difficult season in terms of rough weather conditions, the sheer number of people needing support at sea this summer has tested crews to their limits. And just last month, the crew’s lives were put in danger when the Libyan Coast Guard fired shots in close proximity to a rescue team – the third incident of its kind this year. “They started shooting – both close to us and around the boat we were trying to assist. We were instructed to leave the scene despite being in international waters. I tried to communicate with them but they only responded by shooting, so we had to leave the area for our own safety. It was scary,” says Ahmed. Despite the challenges and dangers that crews on-board the Ocean Viking face, Ahmed remains firmly committed to saving lives at sea. “You reach a point where you feel that you can’t take it anymore. But then each time you hear the ‘ready to rescue’ call from the bridge, you get that rush of adrenaline that keeps you going.” “The best moment is when we dock at a port of safety and can disembark people because that’s when we can say our rescue is done – that they finally made it to a safe place.” “As people step onto dry land, they look into your eyes and thank you. Sometimes they hug you and cry. Some people told us ‘because of you, I didn’t die today’. It’s very emotional.” “Being a humanitarian, seeing people in distress and needing help. That’s what keeps us going.” -- The IFRC has been operating a Humanitarian Service Point onboard the Ocean Viking in partnership with SOS Mediterranée since July 2021. Together, we've rescued and provided humanitarian assistance to more than 4,000 people. SOS Mediterranée focuses on the search and rescue side of the operation, while IFRC teams onboard provide humanitarian assistance (such as health and psychosocial support, food, water and information) to people rescued. For more information: Click here to read more about this work. Learn about our Global Route-Based Migration Programme. See more photos from this rescue operation. Visit IFRC GO, our emergency operations data platform, to see real-time data about our Humanitarian Service Point at sea.

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20/06/2023 |

Article

Hiding from bullets in a water tank: Kenyan evacuee who fled Sudan shares her story

“I heard the bullets outside when I was cleaning. My boss told me the war had started.” These are the words of Theresa*, a young woman from Kenya who bravely agreed to share her story with me about fleeing the conflict in Sudan. Feeling afraid for her safety, she asked me to not publish her photo. Theresa had just started working as a domestic worker with five other young women in a large home in Sudan’s capital, Khartoum, when the fighting broke out. “I was new in Sudan. My bosses left for Egypt and I stayed with five girls and three security. The electricity went off, there was no water, it was too hot.” She says thieves came into the house, tied up their security and started looking for her and her fellow workers. “We went and hid upstairs at the top of the house where there was a water tank. The thieves broke the doors, took gold, money, everything in the house. Even my passport.” “They came upstairs and looked around. We had left a phone and kettle of tea and they said ‘the girls are around and have taken their tea here’.” “I was inside the water tank. They shot bullets so we would come out, but we didn’t. We kept quiet in that tank of water until they ran away.” Theresa and her fellow workers fled the house several days later when another group of men came and moved into it. “I left everything in that house. The road was not safe. The bombs were everywhere. They were shooting, I didn’t care [if I died]. […] I came to my embassy. I stayed there then they brought me to Kenya.” Theresa is just one of 44 people I met in Nairobi airport who’d managed to get evacuated to safety from the conflict in Sudan. They drifted through the airport gates in small pairs and groups, collapsing onto chairs that volunteers from the Kenya Red Cross (KRC) had set out for them. “Karibu, you’re welcome” were among the first words they heard. The group was made up of mostly women – their evacuation prioritized due to the increased risk of sexual and gender-based violence. They had come from different countries and had all been in Sudan to work or study. Social worker and Kenya Red Cross volunteer, Alexina, tells me most of the women and some of the men she’s helped have survived sexual violence. She’s welcomed numerous groups now, and stories like Theresa’s are shockingly similar. People have often fled in a hurry, or their possessions have been stolen en route, meaning they typically have no passports, money or belongings by the time they reach Nairobi. When they arrive, evacuees first register with Kenya Red Cross volunteers who take their details to help reconnect them with their loved ones. They’re then led to a tent where they can have quiet conversations with trained mental health workers. Inside the tent, volunteers, including psychologists and a social worker, sit with small circles of evacuees who share their stories of what they’ve been through. This early psychosocial support gives people who’ve been through traumatic situations a chance to start to process what’s happened. Next is a police table to help them with ID documentation. Then there’s a comfortable welcoming area where people enjoy food and drinks, and a first aid station with medical and hygiene supplies. People can access free phone services, and the Kenya Red Cross runs a bus service to transfer people to free accommodation. “I’m very happy to be back in Kenya now […] When they were looking for me and I was inside the water tank, I thought that was my day to die,” says Theresa. After recounting her story, Theresa looks numb and exhausted. I struggle to find adequate words as we say goodbye. She climbs, carrying her one bag, into one of the buses, and I think about what I should have said: “I’m in awe at your resilience, Theresa.” -- An estimated nine million people have been affected by the conflict in Sudan. Some 1.2 million people have been displaced internally and nearly half a million people have fled to neighbouring countries. The IFRC has launched two Emergency Appeals in response to this crisis: one to support the Sudanese Red Crescent Society to help people inside Sudan, and another to support National Societies in six neighbouring countries welcoming people fleeing the conflict. To help people like Theresa, please donate to our appeals by following the links above. -- *Name has been changed to protect her identity.

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07/06/2023 |

Speech

Secretary General speech at the Inter American Conference 2023

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, It’s so good to be here in the beautiful Bahamas. Bahamas —thank you for hosting this conference. I take this occasion to congratulate the Bahamas on 50 years of your Independence. President Terez Curry, IFRC Vice President Miguel Villarroel, Dr Judith Carvajal, Vice Chair of CORI, GB members and Commission and Committee chairs of the IFRC, George Weber Vice Chair of Standing Commission, Giles Carbonier VP of ICRC, National Society leaders, staff and volunteers and my amazing IFRC secretariat team led by Martha Keys —I pay tribute to all of you who have shown incredible leadership these past few years--through the COVID-19 pandemic and so many other compounding crises. I thank you all for your focus on doing what is right for the people we serve, and for your unwavering commitment to your communities. The Americas region is vibrant, teeming with diverse communities and extraordinary resilience. It is also one of the most unequal regions in the world, hit by a complex web of crises that is driving up humanitarian needs and negatively impacting communities’ lives, livelihoods, and dignity. The climate crisis with rising temperatures, extreme weather events and environmental degradation are wreaking havoc on communities and their livelihoods, across the region. Endemic violence has shattered communities leaving scars that last for generations. It has widened inequality and worsened socio-economic conditions. It is pushing people to flee their homes and has directly contributed to the most severe migration crisis the Americas region faces in recent history. Today, 3 out of every 10 migrants or asylum seekers leave their country of origin because of threats of violence. Sadly, women and children bear the brutal brunt of this terrible crisis. The tragic and horrifying stories of the people I met who were making the perilous journey across the Darien Gap last August will stay with me forever. Every day, around 1000 people take this dangerous path in Darien Gap, in search of safety, hope, and new opportunities. With no political solutions in sight and less resources available, the global humanitarian system is buckling under pressure to meet assistance, and protection needs of people in these circumstances. But, 35 National Societies in this region, sadly only 34 now, have shown that we can confront these challenges by providing a wide range of services that address the core needs of communities. From managing blood banks, clinics, hospitals, and ambulances to leading search and rescue operations, supporting people on the move, running nursing institutions, and developing solutions to tackle the climate crisis and violence, National Societies play crucial role. IFRC is proud to support these efforts through the Disaster Response Emergency Fund, Capacity Building Fund, Emergency Appeals and our annual unified plans. To address increasing migration needs, we are expanding our Humanitarian Service Points (HSPs) to provide life-saving and inclusive services across migratory routes. Collectively, we have reached millions: Over a million people through programmes for migrants and host communities A further one million people through disaster response, More than 3.5 million people through health and well-being programmes. And the millions reached during the COVID-19 response and related immunization efforts. But we cannot rest on our laurels. Today we face serious challenges, both in our ability to meet growing humanitarian needs but also in our ability to safeguard our fundamental principles. In this context, today we gather at this 22nd Inter-American Conference recognizing the responsibility we bear, the solidarity we must foster, and the impact we can create together. Firstly--The responsibility we bear is our opportunity to contribute to something greater than ourselves. Our IFRC network is like no other. We are part of the communities we serve. And we are the largest, most connected, global humanitarian network. This sum of local action and global reach makes National Societies effective auxiliaries to their public authorities in humanitarian field. Our responsibility is to deliver quality humanitarian action that makes a positive difference in people’s lives, that reduces their risks and vulnerabilities, and that enhances their capacities and potential. We can only succeed if we remain true to our Fundamental Principles. They are the foundations of just and inclusive humanitarian action. They are the building blocks of unity, trust, and cooperation in our Movement. They are our moral compass. Without them, our credibility is called into question and our ability to deliver neutral, independent and impartial humanitarian action is threatened. We must reassert our Fundamental Principles. Let’s practise them in our work, speak to them in our discussions, live by them, teach them, help communities, partners and donors understand them. Secondly, solidarity is at the heart of everything we do across the IFRC network. Solidarity and commitment to our Strategy 2030 and Agenda for Renewal has enabled us to respond to the multiple crises and disasters in this region, to provide relief to those in need, and to support communities as they recover and rebuild. Solidarity also means that we stand together as one. It means that we put the needs of those we serve before our own, and that we work to alleviate their suffering. Solidarity enables us to leverage our collective resources, expertise, and influence, to reach more people in need, to advocate for their needs and aspirations, and to amplify their voices. Solidarity is not an option. It is a moral duty. We need this now, more than ever. Thirdly—Our impact. Our success is measured by the outcomes we achieve for the people we serve. In this era of fast paced change and shifting political divides, our focus must be on accountability, agility, engagement, and innovation—which are important elements of our Agenda for Renewal. For this, the IFRC is working for and with National Societies. We have invested in scaling up digitalization, risk management, new funding models for greater agility, accountability, and impact to reach to the communities we serve. We use these resources to foster learning and strengthen National Society capacities, so they are leaders in the humanitarian field, not just in response but in resilience building, data, influence, collaboration, and innovation. This brings me to our volunteers—the lifeline and heartbeat of our network. More than 50 percent of our volunteers today are people under 30. Young people bring with them energy, technological know-how, and innovative solutions. Let’s harness their skills today, give them opportunities to lead us to a more just and equitable future. Colleagues, our impact must be about scaling up our delivery, while ensuring the quality, relevance, and sustainability of our actions. None of the obstacles we face today are insurmountable. We have the knowledge, the resources, the expertise and the skills to bring about the change. As Mother Teresa once said – “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples”. Colleagues- just like Mother Teresa, let us all dare to cast a stone across the water that will collectively create millions of ripples to make this world a better place for everyone. Not just for the few but for everyone. Thank you.

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30/05/2023 |

Article

From Sierra Leone to the Darien: migrants cross continents for a better future

Francis Icabba left his home country ofSierra Leone, West Africa, in search of security and new opportunities. Little did he know back then that he would end up crossing entire continents and one of the most dangerous migration routes in the world to find a better life. His first stop was neighbouring Guinea, after which he crossed the Atlantic Ocean to Brazil. There, he found it difficult to settle in due to the language barrier, so he decided to continue his journey and head north. It took Francistwo months from the time he left Brazilto reach the Darien Gap: thethick, dense, and notoriously dangerousjungle separating Colombia from Panama. Once there, he embarked upon a six-day trek, prepared with cans of sardines, a small gas stove and some instant noodles to see him through. He was accompaniedby two pregnant women, on a journey he describes as ''one of the most difficult things I have ever had to do in my life”. They walked for twelve hours each day without food, as his supplies quickly ran out. The extreme humidity, suffocating heat and constant crossing of rivers and streams forced them to abandon their suitcases along the way. ''The pregnant women we were with had given up. On the way we avoided snakes, rushing rivers and dangerously steep mountains. Everything is green. You have no sense ofdirection and no mobile signal. You just walk and walk. All the people there takethe risk for a better life, but it is a road where hope is lost. I wouldn't advise anyone to go through the Darien Gap.'' Francis The Darien Gap is one of the most dangerous migration routes in the world. Sadly, it is not uncommon for people to die on the route due to the treacherous environmental conditions.There is also a highrisk of violence, sexual abuse, human trafficking and extortion by criminal gangs.  Despite this, it is estimated that more than 400,000 people will cross the Darien by the end of 2023, based on current trends. People ofmore than 50 different nationalities have been recorded travelling through the Darien. The majority are from Venezuela, Haiti and Ecuador, but some come from as far away as India, Somalia, Cameroon and Sierra Leone. People like Francis who make it through the Darien often arrive in very fragile physical and mental states. To help them recover, the Panamanian Red Cross runs reception centres where they providefirst aid and essentials such as food, safe water, hygiene kits and clothes. ''Arriving in Panama was one of the happiest moments of my life, it is very hard because I had to fight for it. The Red Cross was the first to help us and for me it was a blessing. In pursuit of our dream for a better life, we lost everything. So three meals a day, soap, a towel, a bath, being able to talk to someone or be cared for, that means everything.'' Francis Red Cross volunteersalso offer psychosocial support, as well as maternal and child health services to those who need them. And they can provide Restoring Family Links (RFL) services and WiFi, so migrants can let their families know where they are and that they are safe. For most migrants, the Darien isn’t the end of their journey, but rather the start of a 5,470 kilometre journey northwards through sixcountries in Central and North America. But no matter who they are, or where they come from, people on the move in this regionare not alone: they can continue to access similar support from Red Cross Societies, in the form of Humanitarian Service Points, every step of the way. -- Nearly 60,000 migrants like Francis received humanitarian assistance and protection from the IFRC network in 2022 thanks to ourProgrammatic Partnership with the European Union. Implemented by 24 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world, including in Panama, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Ecuador in the Americas, the Partnership helps communities to reduce their risks and be better prepared for disasters and health emergencies. This includes protecting the safety, dignity and rights of people on the move. -- More photos on this topic are available to view and download here.

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16/05/2023 |

Article

Darien new record: As migration increases, so must support

According to data from Panama's National Migration Service, 127,168 migrants crossed Darien National Park between January and April 2023, equivalent to more than 1,000 people per day. In response to this announcement,Verónica Martínez, head of the IFRC's humanitarian response in Darien, said: "The number of migrants arriving in Panama via Darien is growing exponentially. In the last few weeks, we have seen between 2,000 to 3,000 people arriving per day, a figure which is overwhelming the Humanitarian Service Points through which the Red Cross provides assistance." "The majority arrive in a devastating and inhumane condition. They are injured, dehydrated, with severe allergic reactions, and complications from pregnancies or chronic illnesses. Many have been victims of abuse and violence. The Red Cross provides them with first aid, basic healthcare, and access to water. They also provide information, internet connectivity, and referrals to specialized institutions." "But these record numbers also strain the basic services in the communities that host the migrant people after their journey through the jungle. In Bajo Chiquito, the number of walkers is sometimes five times greater than the number of local inhabitants, which leads to the collapse of water supply, for example. The water treatment plants installed by the Red Cross there are insufficient." "Despite all efforts to meet the growing needs, the aid in Darien is becoming insufficient. Migrants, local communities, and humanitarian agencies all need humanitarian assistance to grow exponentially. We need sustained help over time that can adapt to changes in the context and is aimed at saving lives and protecting dignity, like the one provided by the Red Cross thanks to humanitarian aid funding and the continuous support of the European Union, Spanish Cooperation, and other actors*." "The region is on the brink of a new rainy and hurricane season, which makes it even more urgent for support to arrive as soon as possible. From June to November, the risks faced by migrants on the migration route from Panama to Mexico will also include river floods and storms. The IFRC and the Red Cross network are preparing to face this scenario, but as they warned last March, we need allies. Providing humanitarian assistance remains urgent and is a team effort." In August 2022, the IFRC launched an Emergency Appealrequesting international support of 18 million Swiss francs (USD 20.3 million) to provide humanitarian assistance to 210,000 people along the migration routes of Central America and Mexico. However, the amount raised so far is around five percent of the total requested. -- Click here to access rights-free B-roll and photos from this crisis on the IFRC Newsroom. *Contributors include the British Red Cross, Swedish Red Cross, Canadian Red Cross, Japanese Red Cross, Monaco Red Cross, Dutch Red Cross, Swiss Red Cross, Simón Bolivar Foundation, and UNICEF.

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19/04/2023 |

Article

Honduran Red Cross: Kindness shines bright in local communities

It’s 8am on a peaceful Sunday morning in Copán Ruinas, a small, picturesque town in western Honduras that was formerly one of the most powerful cities in the Mayan empire. Shopkeepers are starting to open their doors. A scattering of women and children play in the main square. And many locals – wearing their signature wide-brimmed hats – are heading out on their morning walks. But one man stands out in his bright red vest and cap. A large Red Cross emblem and the words Cruz Roja Hondureña proudly emblazoned on the back. I watch for a moment as he chats to people in the village, who all seem to greet him warmly with a handshake or fist bump. I catch up to him, say a friendly “¡Hola, amigo!” and learn his name is Stanley. A Red Cross volunteer for more than 22 years, he’s on his way to a meeting with fellow volunteers and staff from around their region. He invites me to visit the local branch later that afternoon to learn about what they do. And so I did! And the welcome couldn’t have been warmer. Over lunch, I learned that everyone had come together from across the region to share their stories, knowledge, and experiences of supporting their local communities through various crises and day-to-day challenges. Let me tell you about three of the people I met: Mirian, Napoleón and Loany. Mirian Mirian is the proud President of the Copán branch and has been volunteering for more than 10 years. Her branch runs the only two ambulances in the whole town, meaning that when someone gets into trouble, it’s her team that answers the call. She oversees far more than emergency health services, though. Her branch does a lot of work helping local people, including indigenous groups living in the surrounding hills and schoolchildren, to be prepared for crises – such as hurricanes and floods. Her branch is also supporting the growing number of migrants passing through Honduras on their way northwards, including, amongst other things, through Humanitarian Service Points: strategically located spaces where migrants can access safe and reliable support on their journeys. “I am motivated by humanitarianism, by seeing how the Red Cross is an organization full of love for others. That we are people willing to give everything. For me, it’s the best thing that ever happened to me – being a member of the Red Cross family,” says Mirian. Napoleón Napoleón is based in San Pedro Sula, Honduras’ second largest city. He’s a former cameraman who has been volunteering as a driver for the Honduran Red Cross for five years. A couple of years ago, Napoleón was one of many Honduran Red Cross volunteers who responded to devastating hurricanes Eta and Iota that ravaged the region. He describes driving a large rescue truck through flood water so deep his vehicle nearly washed away. Despite treacherous conditions, he was able to reach and help rescue many stranded people, their belongings, and pets. He also assisted with the massive recovery and reconstruction effort, helping to put people’s lives and homes back together again. The pride Napoleón takes in volunteering is written all over his face. His smile beams from ear to ear as he talks about supporting his fellow volunteers and rallying them together during a crisis. “I like being a volunteer because you donate part of your life and you share feelings in helping humanity. It makes you feel good, feel satisfied, to be able to help,” says Napoleón. Loany Loany is also based in San Pedro Sula, but her role is a little different. She’s not a volunteer, instead she’s employed by the Honduran Red Cross to help volunteers. She works with local branches, like the one in Copán, to improve their governance, financial management, and resource mobilization, so that their volunteers can provide better care and support to their communities. While it might not sound as impressive as wading through flood waters to rescue survivors, Loany’s work is no less important. Strong local branches are the bedrock of the IFRC network. Without them, we can’t provide the fast, effective and local support that communities in crisis really need. With one year’s experience, Loany is a relative newcomer to the Red Cross family. I asked her what working for the Red Cross means to her and whether she plans to continue: “For me it means love, because wanting to do things well, wanting to help other people who are vulnerable or at risk, makes us give the best of ourselves as people. Now that I’ve entered the world of the Red Cross, I don’t know if I’ll ever leave!,” she says. At the end of the volunteer meeting, the group disbands, bidding each other fond farewells. I walk back to the main square in Copán, thinking about a word we often use in the humanitarian sector: ‘localization’. It’s a jargon term. But what does it really mean? I realise that, to me, it means Mirian, Napoleón and Loany: three people working hard within their local communities to make life better, safer, and brighter for those around them. And it means Stanley: a man treading the same familiar streets for years in his hometown wearing his Red Cross vest. A man known, trusted, and respected by his local community, there for them through good times and bad.

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16/12/2022 |

Article

West Africa migration: Red Cross offers an oasis of help and hope to migrants in Kolda, Senegal

"They are exposed to violence, exploitation, abuse, security risks, sexual and gender-based violence, and all kinds of dangers along their migratory routes; here we offer them hope, as well as protection, assistance, guidance and counselling”. This is how Mariama Mballo, a social worker, sums up the work carried out at the Kolda Humanitarian Service Point (HSP) run by the Senegalese Red Cross and IFRC in southern Senegal. "The Kolda HSP is a centre for listening, psychosocial support, counselling and assistance for migrants. It offers an anonymous, confidential and free space for reception and counselling", says the 30-year-old sociologist by training, who has been working there since February 2022. Senegal, historically considered a destination country for migrants in West Africa, has become a transit country. Due to its geographical location, migrants, especially those coming from West Africa, pass through Senegal on their journey north to Maghreb countries or Europe in search of a better life. The importance of psychosocial support Travelling along perilous migration routes can have a profound impact on both the physical and mental health of migrants. The aim of the psychosocial support provided in Kolda is to help people on the move regain a certain normality, mental balance and, above all, to encourage people to be active and committed to their own recovery—by finding defence and protection mechanisms that work for them. When migrants in transit have needs that cannot be met at the HSP, they are referred to other external partner services. "The key to the project is its volunteers, in fact, they are the 'front door', the ones who first receive the migrants, listen to them and then direct them to the social worker for an active and in-depth listening", stresses Mariama. Staff working in Kolda can also sometimes become overwhelmed when listening to the experiences recounted to them by migrants during counselling sessions. “Yes, there are stories that shock us, but we have the capacity to overcome them in order to offer migrants the guidance and support they need," says Mariama. Meeting people’s wide-ranging needs People on the move can access other vital assistance, such as food and water, in Kolda. Many migrants who arrive, including women and children, have gone days without food as they undertake their long journeys through often inhospitable areas. Kolda's volunteers and staff also offer people useful advice and counselling on issues such as human trafficking, regaining contact with their families or the handling of important travel documents. And, if necessary, migrants can also receive legal assistance, always with the utmost confidentiality and protection, as well as basic help with clothing and hygiene in order to ensure their health and well-being. "The people who arrive at the HSP are often in a situation of advanced vulnerability, so we do everything we can to immediately meet their most pressing needs," says Mariama. Volunteers don’t just support migrants. They also carry out intensive work with the local community to raise awareness and knowledge about respect for the rights and dignity of migrants. This important work is carried out with the utmost confidentiality, always in line with our fundamental principles and the IFRC’s migration policy. Assistance and protection of the most vulnerable migrants in West Africa Kolda is just one example of the more than 600 Humanitarian Service Points run by National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies along the world’s main migration routes. They are neutral spaces that provide a welcoming and safe environment for migrants to access essential services, regardless of their status and without fear of being detained or reported to the authorities. Since the launch of the Kolda HSP en 2020, wich includes other small posts in Tanaff, Salikégné, Diaobé and Pata, volunteers have welcomed and supported more than 1,500 migrants. It was set up as part of the 'Assistance and protection of the most vulnerable migrants in West Africa' project. Funded by the European Union, the project covers different busy migratory routes through Burkina Faso, Gambia, Mali, Niger and Senegal. In addition to the National Societies of these countries, the project also involves the IFRC, Spanish Red Cross, Danish Red Cross and Luxembourg Red Cross. -- For more information, visit our migration and displacement webpage to learn more about the IFRC’s migration policies, programmes and operations

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19/12/2022 |

Basic page

Humanitarian Service Points

Humanitarian Service Points (HSPs) aresafe, welcoming and strategically located spaces where migrants and displaced people can access reliable support from Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

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01/11/2022 |

Press release

Survivors stranded at sea: SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC call for maritime law to be respected

The Ocean Viking – a search and rescue ship chartered by SOS MEDITERRANEE and operated in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) – rescued 234 women, children and men from six boats in distress in the central Mediterranean between October 22 and 26. “People rescued in the central Mediterranean by ships should and must be allowed to disembark in a Place of Safety within reasonable time as is the case for search and rescue operations conducted by authorities and merchant ships. The ever-worsening blockages faced by rescue ships in this stretch of the sea since 2018 are discriminatory and unacceptable. Keeping survivors onboard ships hostages of political debate longer would be the result of a dramatic failure of European members and associated States,” says Xavier Lauth, SOS MEDITERRANEE Director of operations. “The people rescued are absolutely exhausted, dehydrated, with psychological distress, and some requiring immediate medical attention. We provided health care, food, water, hygiene items, psychological first aid and opportunity to call and connect with family members. But they cannot afford to wait any longer, this uncertainty is making the situation unbearable with stress growing day by day. They urgently need a port of safety,” says Frido Herinckx, operations manager with IFRC. People’s right to promptly disembark in a Place of Safety suffers no debate. The current blockage in the disembarkation of the search and rescue operations are grave and consequential breaches of maritime law. The international convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) frames Search and Rescue obligations to States and shipmasters in great detail, from the obligation to respond to and coordinate search for boats reported in distress, to the obligation to assign a “Place of Safety as soon as reasonably practicable”. All circumstances are considered, including the obligation for most able to assist States to cooperate in order to identify a place of safety for disembarkation; the obligation to provide assistance “regardless of the nationality or status of such persons” (Chapter V - Reg 33.1- amendment 2004), as well as the fact that “status assessment of rescued persons” should not “unduly delay disembarkation of survivors”. IMO RESOLUTION MSC.167(78) (adopted on 20 May 2004) As per maritime conventions, the Ocean Viking informed relevant maritime authorities at all steps of the search and rescue operations and asked for the designation of a Place of Safety. We must prioritize and cooperate in search and rescue operations for people on the move regardless of their status, including through clear, safe and predictable disembarkation mechanisms for rescued people. SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC urge EU members and associated states to respect maritime law, cooperate in the designation of a Place of Safety for the survivors on Ocean Viking and put an end to the suffering of hundreds of men, women and children.

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02/09/2022 |

Press release

Eight days waiting onboard Ocean Viking amid overwhelming medical needs: SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC call for 460 of survivors’ right to disembark

Marseille/Geneva/Budapest, 2 September 2022 - 460 women, children, babies and men are stuck in limbo waiting to disembark. Some with overwhelming medical needs have been stuck onboard eight days after being rescued on the deadly Central Mediterranean. SOS MEDITERRANEE and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) are calling for these survivors’ right to disembark in a Place of Safety without further delay. Within just 60 hours, the Ocean Viking—a search and rescue ship chartered by SOS MEDITERRANEE in partnership with the IFRC — faced more distress cases than ever before. The crew found and rescued people from ten unseaworthy, overcrowded boats on the world’s deadliest sea migratory route since 2014, the Central Mediterranean. The search and rescue ship remains stranded at sea waiting for the survivors’ disembarkation. The team is facing an overwhelming number of medical cases, including exhaustion, dehydration, and untreated skin infections and wounds. Other survivors are facing chronic medical conditions and two 9-month-pregnant women were evacuated. “We have never experienced such level of severe medical cases on board Ocean Viking before. The survivors were found in the middle of high seas in unimaginable situations. In a desperate attempt to find safety, they were near to die at sea, either by drowning, or by dehydration. Per maritime law, their rescues will only be completed when they will have reached a Place of Safety. The current blockade for their disembarkation must find an end without further delay,” says Xavier Lauth, SOS MEDITERRANEE Director of Operations. Every day that passes, the needs of those on board grow. Francesco Rocca, President of IFRC said: “The sheer number of people rescued in such a short time with such severity of people’s conditions onboard only shows us that the situation is getting so much more desperate for those seeking safety and protection. We cannot continue to face this same challenge over and over again. We need longer term solutions – including a commitment for safe and regular pathways to protection and safety while also ensuring access to protection for those arriving spontaneously.” SOS MEDITERRANEE and IFRC call on European members and associated States to show solidarity, observe maritime law and guarantee fundamental human rights. The wait and suffering of the 460 survivors onboard Ocean Viking must end immediately. Note to editors: The Ocean Viking rescued 466 women, children and men in ten rescue operations between August 25 and 27. Among the survivors are over 20 adult women, including several pregnant and over 80 minors, 75% of whom are unaccompanied. On August 29, two 9-month-pregnant women had to be urgently medically evacuated. They were transferred onto an Italian Coast Guard patrol vessel with four of their relatives (two sisters and their two children, including a 3-week-old little girl). Despite having contacted relevant maritime authorities at all steps of the search and rescue operations, the Ocean Viking was left alone, with no coordination nor information-sharing from relevant maritime authorities. Four of the unseaworthy and overcrowded boats in distress were spotted via binoculars from the bridge of the Ocean Viking. The distress alerts of the six other boats were relayed by civil NGOs such as the civil network Alarm Phone, the aircrafts of the NGOs Pilotes Volontaires and Sea-Watch, and the sailing vessels of the NGOs Open Arms and Resqship. The Ocean Viking informed relevant maritime authorities at all steps of the rescues and sent requests for the designation of a Place of Safety as soon as possible after each operation, as per maritime law. Recently, a new shipwreck was reported by the International Organisation for Migration. Two bodies of deceased persons were retrieved by Libyan Coastguards and 19 people were reported missing by the six survivors of this tragedy on August 27, the same day Ocean Viking teams rescued 198 survivors from five boats in distress. Since 2014, almost 19,811 people are known to have perished in the central Mediterranean. That’s 80% of the deaths recorded in the whole Mediterranean Sea. SOS MEDITERRANEE rescued 36,789 people since the beginning of its operations in 2016, with Aquarius and Ocean Viking. A total of 7,266 people were rescued by the Ocean Viking since she started operating in August 2019. Since September 2021, IFRC teams participated in ten patrols on Ocean Viking and helped rescue more than 2,700 people. While the SOS MEDITERRANEE team focuses on search and rescue at sea, the IFRC team focuses on providing humanitarian post-rescue services, including medical care, first aid, psychosocial support, relief and protection. For more information, please contact: IFRC In Geneva: Jenelle Eli, +1 202 603 6803, [email protected] IFRC in Budapest: Nora Peter, +36 70 265 4020, [email protected] SOS MEDITERRANEE International & Operations: Laurence Bondard / +33 6 23 24 59 93 / [email protected]

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01/08/2022 |

Press release

IFRC: 210,000 migrants need urgent life-saving assistance and protection in Central America and Mexico

Panama City, 1 August 2022 -The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is ramping up its response to provide urgent humanitarian assistance and protection to 210,000 people on the move by land northwards through Central America and Mexico. Along migratory routes, many people suffer accidents and injuries, face extortion and sexual violence, or disappear and are separated from their families. Others are killed or die from disease or environmental conditions. According to official data, since January 2022, there is a concerning increase in the number of migrants and refugees in Central America and Mexico compared to previous years. Irregular migration has increased an 85% in Panama, 689% in Honduras, and 108% in Mexico. If this upward trend continues in the coming months, an estimated 500,000people* would require humanitarian assistance. Roger Alonso, IFRC Head of Disaster, Crises and Climate Unit, said: “Local Red Cross teams, from Panama to Mexico, confirm that dramatic spike in the number of migrants moving northwards. We are especially concerned for women, children, the disabled, older people, and LGBTQI migrants. They are at extreme risk and need medical and mental health assistance, access to food and water, information, connectivity, and resources to cover vital expenses such as paying for safe places to sleep.” Most of the migrants and refugees in transit through the region are from Cuba, Venezuela, and Haiti. Nationals from Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Mexico also continue heading north. The main reasons for migrating include improving their income, escaping violence, reuniting with family members, and recovering from the impact of recurring disasters and extreme weather events. In Panama, in June 2022 alone, 15,000 migrants crossed the perilous Darien Gap – 500 people per day. Out of every 100 of them, 16 are children. In Costa Rica, 441 persons a day entered from Panama in May 2022, an increase of 158% compared to April 2022. Nearly 24,000 Cubans arrived in Nicaragua from January to May 2022, while in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico there is a significant increase in the number of returnees. In this challenging context, the IFRC has launched a 28 million CHF** Emergency Appeal to support 210,000 people on the move during the next 12 months. Red Cross Societies in Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico will provide migrants, refugees, and returnees with health care, mental health support, access to water and sanitation services, and cash for them to cover essential needs, such as accommodation or food. Martha Keays, IFRC Regional Director for the Americas, said: It is unacceptable that migrating continues to cost people their dignity and their lives. This is why we are scaling up our current response and standing up our vital emergency support along migratory routes. We call on governments, our partners, and donors to join this humanitarian action. Protecting people migrating in a desperate situation and defending their rights, disregarding their status is a humanitarian imperative and a collective duty. The devastating socioeconomic effects in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the climate crisis, continuing political crises, and disasters will continue to ramp up exponentially population movements. The challenge ahead of us is titanic.” The Red Cross’ response will prioritize attention along the routes where most migrants and displaced persons face bureaucratic barriers, hostile climates, stigma, discrimination, violence, insecurity, and even loss of life. The support will be provided through the Red Cross network of 20 Humanitarian Service Points*** in Central America and Mexico. These are neutral, safe spaces—whether fixed or mobile—where people on the move can access health care, psychosocial support, and information, among other services. In Panama, for instance, the Humanitarian Service Point provides migrants crossing the Darien Gap with first aid, health care for pregnant women and children, psychosocial support, clean water, access to mobile phones, and information about the risks and services they may find along their journey. People who require specialized health support are referred to public services. With migration flows increasingin the region, this model will continue to save lives and reduce suffering. The IFRC and its network will also work with origin, transit, and host communities to address environmental-, climate-, and livelihood-related issues that may trigger population movements. For more information or to arrange an interview: In Panama: Susana Arroyo Barrantes, [email protected] In Panama: Maria Langman, [email protected],+507 6550 1090 In Geneva: Jenelle Eli, [email protected],+1 202 603 6803 Notes *The 500,000 people possibly affected have been estimated taking into account irregular crossing entries and reports from July to December 2021, considering a 45% increase scenario (most countries are above 100% increase ) and at least one aggregate of 173,176 from January to June 2022. **$29.2 million. ***Six in Guatemala, eight in Mexico, five in Honduras and one in Panama.

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23/05/2022 |

Article

IFRC scales up cash assistance to people impacted by conflict in Ukraine

Three months into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has distributed financial assistance totalling more than 4.3 million Swiss francs to thousands of people on the move. IFRC Head of Emergency Operations for the Ukraine response, Anne Katherine Moore, said: “The longer the conflict continues, the greater the needs become. The cost of basic necessities, such as fresh fruit and vegetables, is rising. Increases in the cost of fuel and apartment rentals are also being reported. Millions of people have lost their jobs and their savings are dwindling. Through a new mobile app, we have been able to ramp up our support to help people facing these financial challenges.” The new technology makes it possible for the IFRC and responding National Societies to reach people at scale and to deliver cash assistance digitally. Successfully introduced in Romania, the mobile app allows refugees to self-register for assistance online, negating the need and cost involved of having to travel to a central location. The app will soon be expanded to Poland and Slovakia, where cash assistance is already being provided through more traditional methods such as in-person registration, as well as Ukraine and other neighbouring countries. “This is the fastest we have ever delivered cash at this scale. It has the potential to be a game-changer for our work not just in this response, but also in future operations,” Moore continued. Cash assistance is a dignified and efficient way to support people impacted by the conflict, allowing them to purchase items specific to their individual needs, while also supporting local economies. It is one part of our integrated and wide-ranging Red Cross and Red Crescent response to the conflict that also includes the provision of health care, first aid, psychosocial support and the distribution of basic household necessities. Speaking about next steps, Moore said: “There is no short-term solution to the needs of the more than 14 million people who have been forced to flee their homes. We know that even if the conflict was to end tomorrow, rebuilding and recovery will take years. People have lost their homes, their livelihoods, and access to timely healthcare. The IFRC, in support of local National Red Cross Societies in the region, will be there helping people now, and in the months and years to come.” -- Watch: our response 3 months on During the past three months: Together, we have reached more than 2.1million people with life-saving aid within Ukraine and in surrounding countries. This is 1 in 10 people who had to flee their homes because of the conflict. Along the travel routes within and outside Ukraine, we've set up 142 Humanitarian Service Points in 15 countries to provide those fleeing with a safe environment. There, they receive essential services like food, hygiene items, blankets, clothing water, first aid, psychosocial support, information, and financial assistance. In total, we distributed 2.3 million kilograms of aid. 71,000 Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers are responding to the crisis.

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16/05/2022 |

Press release

IFRC president: Ethnicity and nationality should not be deciding factors in saving lives

New York / Geneva, 16 May 2022 – President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Francesco Rocca calls on states to step up to their responsibility to save lives, no matter where people are from, ahead of the first review of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM). Mr Rocca says: “When I was in Marrakech for the adoption of the GCM I made a statement that the world’s approach to migration is painfully broken – but that the GCM can fix it. As we begin the first review of the progress made since then, I am sad to say that this has not been the case so far. Not enough changes to policies and practices to ensure safe and dignified migration have taken place, and many more lives have been lost due to that failure to act.” On the world’s deadliest sea migration route, the central Mediterranean, the number of deaths has in fact increased since the GCM was signed. The Ocean Viking ship, operated by SOS Mediterranée with IFRC providing humanitarian services on board, saves people in distress on this route. “We need to carry out this work as state-coordinated search and rescue is absent in the area,” says Mr Rocca. “Our teams have already saved 1,260 people in the nine months we’ve been operating.” The Ocean Viking is one of the 330 Humanitarian Service Points (HSPs) in 45 countries that supports the ambitions of the GCM, providing assistance and protection to people on the move irrespective of status and without fear of reprisal. The Romanian Red Cross implements HSPs in Bucharest to support people fleeing Ukraine, providing information, food, water, hygiene items and financial assistance, while the Hungarian Red Cross has been operating a HSP at the Keleti railway station 24/7 to welcome people arriving from Ukraine by train with information, food, hygiene items and baby care products. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Colombian Red Cross Society has implemented HSPs at the border with Venezuela, offering essential services like healthcare, while Libyan Red Crescent volunteers have provided support to migrants and displaced people, operating HSPs that provided access to information, food, and other necessities, as well as restoring family links services. At the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF), the IFRC is calling for individual and collective efforts on search and rescue; ensuring access to essential services for migrants regardless of status; scaling up support to people affected of climate related displacement; and the inclusion of migrants in all aspects of society and decision making. “The political, public and humanitarian response to the Ukraine crisis has shown what is possible when humanity and dignity comes first, when there is global solidarity and the will to assist and protect the most vulnerable,” says Mr Rocca. “This must be extended to everyone in need, wherever they come from. Ethnicity and nationality should not be deciding factors in saving lives.” Listen to the recording of Francesco Rocca's press briefing at the UN in New York. To schedule an interview or for further information: In New York: Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 4367, [email protected] In Geneva: Anna Tuson, +41 79 895 6924, [email protected]

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11/05/2022 |

Article

En route to Europe I didn’t fear death—only dying without trying

This piece was originally published in Politico, here. I sought safety. That was my destination. I wasn’t thinking of European cities or towns. I just wanted to be safe. That’s why I left my country. It’s why I didn’t stop in those nearby either—I had to keep moving. First through Sudan and Libya, then on a wooden boat across the Mediterranean Sea, where I was eventually picked up by a rescue ship. More than 10 years have passed since then, and I live in Italy now. But through my work, I find myself reliving that experience over and over. The most important part of my job is telling the people we rescue: “You are safe.” It’s as if I’m also telling their mothers, telling their brothers and sisters and all their villages too. I celebrate this moment with them; I celebrate their lives with them. Because too many others never get to hear those words. In the last few months, we’ve seen tremendous solidarity with those fleeing the war in Ukraine; it is incredibly inspiring. Yet witnessing the overarching willingness to help victims of this crisis, while so many who flee suffering and persecution elsewhere end up at the bottom of the sea, raises the question: do human lives really carry such difference in value? It was never my first choice to undertake such a dangerous journey to seek safety so far from home. But the lack of available legal channels to access international protection made it my only option — it was a necessity. And while states argue about migration policies and practices, for us volunteers, it is simply about saving lives and alleviating suffering. When I left Eritrea 20 years ago, fleeing compulsory military service and forced labor programs, I didn't know where Europe was, what it was like or how to get there. It also didn’t occur to me that I was saying goodbye to my family, and my country, for the last time. Like my brothers and sisters in Ukraine today, my only concern was avoiding bullets. And I am one of the relatively few from my part of the world fortunate enough to reach a place of safety in the end. When I was travelling through the desert in Libya, I remember seeing a group of people—women, men and children—lying crumpled on top of each other, naked. I asked the driver why they were naked, and he told me that their car had broken down and they had burned everything to try and attract attention, including their own clothes. What is the use of clothing anyway, when one is facing death? They were just some unknown people, who came into the world naked and left naked. People so off the radar they had to burn everything in the hopes of being seen. Still, even that was not enough. You meet merchants of death in Libya too—those who organize the trips to leave by boat, who are your only hope of escaping that hell. When you experience how horrible life there is—the prisons, torture, gangs and slave markets—you are not afraid of death, only of dying without trying. When I finally reached the coast and went toward the waiting boat, I could barely walk from both the fear and hope. I saw mothers throwing their children onto the boat and following after them. I did not wonder why a mother would throw her child inside this small boat. I was sure that whatever she had seen must be more terrible than the sea and its darkness. We set out at night. Eventually, the time comes when you can’t see anyone, not even yourself, but the prayers, crying and moaning remain. At that moment, the sounds of children are the only source of certainty that you are still alive. We were at sea like this for three days until the rescue ship found us. One might ask why someone decides to go through all this. But just look at what is happening in the countries people are coming from: the suffering caused by conflict, hunger, poverty, climate change and many other factors that are often present in their surrounding countries too. And those who leave don’t just do it for themselves—they’re an investment for their families and communities. One of my friends sends the money he earns back home to build a school in his village. Another one has funded access to safe water. The money that migrants around the world send home is three times more than what comes from aid. The Ukraine crisis and the response to it have now shown us what is possible when we put humanity first, when there is global solidarity and the will to assist and protect the most vulnerable. This must be extended to everyone in need, wherever they come from. Nobody should have to experience what I have been through—in my own country, on my migration journey or when I arrived in Europe. Everyone deserves to hear the words, “You’re safe.”

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18/02/2022 |

Press release

Survivors on rescue ship Ocean Viking urgently need to disembark in a place of safety

Marseille/Geneva/Budapest, 18 February 2022 – Since Monday, 14 February, the Ocean Viking has been waiting with 247 rescued people on board to be assigned a place of safety. Despite 5 requests to the relevant maritime authorities, the ship has yet to receive instructions on where to disembark those rescued at sea as rough weather has taken a toll on the health of the survivors on board. The 247 people were rescued from distress at sea in five separate operations in less than 36 hours last weekend and earlier this week by the Ocean Viking, a rescue ship chartered by European search and rescue organisation SOS MEDITERRANEE and operated in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Michele Angioni, Search and Rescue Coordinator for SOS MEDITERRANEE on the Ocean Viking, says: “We have performed five rescues in less than 36 hours several days ago in the Maltese and Libyan search and rescue regions and received no coordination from maritime authorities, despite numerous emails and calls. After this intense weekend, we went through a storm with waves up to 4 meters and winds up to 30 knots.” Among the 247 rescued people are 53 unaccompanied minors as well as a 5-month-old baby. Some of the survivors show signs of torture, like 19-year-old Amath* from Senegal, who left for Libya with his brother when he was only 9 years old. Amath told the crew that he left Senegal ten years ago to find work in Libya. There he was jailed ten times, beaten often by guards or police – having scars all over his back. He also said that he was shot in the leg while trying to escape. “After the rescues and once recovered onboard the Ocean Viking, we treated cases of fuel inhalation, fuel burns and skin infections,” says Johanna Jonsdottir, IFRC nurse. “Since then, survivors have suffered from seasickness and consequent dehydration, headaches and stomach-ache. We see that the psychological condition of people is worsening because of the standoff. Some survivors have old wounds, such as burns, twisted ankles, gunshots and suffer from back pain after being beaten,” adds Eila Rooseli, IFRC medical doctor. Many of the rescued people have explained to teams on board that for them, the only way to escape Libya was to attempt the perilous crossing of the central Mediterranean in an unseaworthy dinghy, even though they knew of the risks. However, according to maritime law, a rescue is only formally completed once the survivors are disembarked in a place where their lives are no longer threatened and their basic needs met. Too often, survivors have to spend extended periods of time on rescue ships before being allowed to disembark. “The lack of SAR coordination and of a predictable disembarkation mechanism has been putting the lives and health of survivors at risk for several years. This can no longer be the norm. A ship is not a sustainable place for survivors to remain on. We need a Place of Safety for men, women and children to disembark without further delay,” Search and Rescue coordinator Michele Angioni adds. -- *Name has been changed to protect the individual's privacy For more information, contact: From IFRC: In Geneva: Anna Tuson, [email protected], +41 79 895 6924 In Budapest: Hannu-Pekka Laiho, [email protected], +358 40 5257126 In Budapest: Nora Peter, [email protected], +36 70 953 7709 From SOS MEDITERRANEE: International & Germany: Julia Schaefermeyer / +33 6 12 52 15 69 / [email protected] France: Morgane Lescot / + 33 6 11 74 10 11 / [email protected] Italy: Francesco Creazzo / +39 347 815 1131 / [email protected] Switzerland: Eva Ostendarp / +41 79 239 99 13 / [email protected] (German) and Elliot Guy / +41 782 38 74 04 / [email protected]

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14/02/2022 |

Press release

Ocean Viking rescues 247 people within 48 hours from the Mediterranean Sea, including 5-month-old baby

Budapest/Geneva, 14 February 2022 – Search and rescue (SAR) ship Ocean Viking had an extremely intense weekend, with the crew having saved 247 people in five rescues in less than 48 hours. The ship is operated by European maritime search and rescue organisation SOS MEDITERRANEE in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Survivors are now being cared for onboard, having received food, dry clothes and blankets. The medical team provided first aid and psychosocial support, treating cases of mild hypothermia, fuel inhalation and fuel burns. Some people also show signs of torture. Among the 247 survivors, there are 52 unaccompanied minors and a 5-month-old baby. The survivors represent 16 different nationalities, with most people coming from Egypt, Bangladesh, Syria, Ethiopia, Tunisia and Ivory Coast. The first rescue operation started on Saturday, 12 February, three days after Ocean Viking had left the port of Trapani, Sicily. An alert was sent for an overcrowded wooden boat in distress in the Maltese search and rescue region. The rescue team of SOS MEDITERRANEE found 93 people in an overcrowded wooden boat without lifejackets and brought them to safety to Ocean Viking. The second rescue took place during the night of 12 February, again a wooden boat in distress, in the Libyan search and rescue region. 88 people were rescued. The boat was highly overcrowded, very unstable, the people had no lifejackets and had suffered from fuel inhalation. The third rescue happened on Sunday morning, 13 February, a small wooden boat with 22 people were in distress in the Maltese search and rescue region. The boat was at high risk of taking in water. The fourth rescue started soon after the third one. Ocean Viking received a VHF call from the aircraft of the NGO Pilotes Volontaires about a boat requiring urgent help and about to take water in. The rescue of 25 people was completed in one hour. The fifth rescue took place a day later, on 14 February, in international waters inside the Libyan SAR region. 19 people were safely recovered from a fiberglass boat in distress among 1-meter waves. Since IFRC entered in partnership with SOS MEDITERRANEE in August 2021, the Ocean Viking rescued 804 people in distress in the Mediterranean Sea. This life-saving mission is an integral part of the Red Cross Red Crescent presence to protect and assist people in countries of origin, transit and destination across Africa, Middle East and Europe. As a neutral, independent and impartial humanitarian organization, IFRC’s global network provides critical humanitarian assistance to all persons in need, regardless of their legal status. For more information, please contact: In Budapest: Hannu-Pekka Laiho, [email protected], +358 40 5257126 In Budapest: Nora Peter, [email protected], +36 70 265 4020

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