World Refugee Day 2015

Press Statement

Salem Al Meslet

Syrian Coalition Spokesperson

June 20, 2015

Today marks World Refugee Day 2015. Commenting on the event, Spokesperson of the Syrian Coalition said:

“The number of displaced people across the world is reaching unprecedented proportions. It is estimated that the figure currently stands at a staggering 60 million people.

“The images we have all seen of refugees stranded in the sea; of boats full of women and children capsizing in the Mediterranean were devastatingly heartbreaking. It is the grim prospect of a more miserable fate that drives vulnerable refugees to make such extremely dangerous journeys.

“Since the start of the Syrian uprising in 2011, neighboring countries have taken in more than 4 million refugees. They have struggled to find the funds to meet the growing needs of refugees. The international community has not, until now, managed to offer enough assistance leaving the economies and communities of those countries strained to the breaking point.

“That, however, does not, in any way, justify the recent concerning restrictive measures neighbouring countries adopted; effectively banning entry of refugees to their territory. We call on these countries to reconsider their policies regarding entry of those fleeing violence and persecution.

“With no end in sight to the conflict in Syria, those escaping the violence will continue to choose a perilous journey across the Mediterranean to find refuge in European countries.

“The international community should do more, not only to find mechanisms to take in more refugees through legal channels, but also to help reach an end to the conflict in Syria, thereby allowing the return of refugees to their homes and towns to be part of a new democratic inclusive Syria.”