As more humanitarian groups look to engage in helping those affected by the conflict in Ukraine, they’re attempting to focus their messages on both groups needing assistance, and the magnitude of the task facing them. Michael Messenger, CEO for World Vision Canada, points to the impact on children, noting “Children often bear the biggest brunt of a disaster. They are living under these conditions and are faced with mental and emotional stress. They’ve lost loved ones and families are fractured.” Notes Messenger, “So kids who often feel helpless and are so deeply dependent on others for care, often feel this the worst. That’s why our response in working with refugee families includes psychological first aid, it sits right alongside meeting some of those basic physical needs.”
Comparably, Amnesty International points to the need for establishing corridors by which civilians can escape the conflict. Says Agnès Callamard, Secretary General for Amnesty International, “The deliberate targeting of civilians and civilian objects and indiscriminate attacks are prohibited under international law. All unlawful attacks must cease. This pressing need for humanitarian corridors is a direct result of Russia’s betrayal of its legal obligations. Regrettably humanitarian corridors are needed urgently.”
The International Red Cross has pointed to their efforts to both support refugees in surrounding nations, and aiding those still within the country with emergency aid, via local organizations where possible, and providing cash, food, and other basic supplies and necessities. Says Lani Fortier, Senior Director for Delivery in Emergencies, “We will work to respond where we are needed the most and with the services that are needed urgently.”
Source:
https://www.rescue.org/article/how-does-irc-respond-emergency-ukraine
