Innovation, green tech and sunlight help secure safe water for Rohingya refugees
This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today’s press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. The first five solar-powered safe water systems – put in operation by UNHCR,...
Thousands of asylum-seekers moved off Greek islands
As winter bites, UNHCR helps the Greek government move vulnerable asylum-seekers from reception centres on the Aegean Islands to shelter on the mainland. By Anthi Pazianou LESVOS, Greece – Under a light drizzle, families from various war-torn countries stack duffel...
Kigali sees economic sense in helping refugee entrepreneurs
Support scheme in Rwandan capital and elsewhere sees refugee businesses including Burundian-owned LPG store create 2,600 new jobs countrywide. By Catherine Wachiaya in Kigali, Rwanda At a busy intersection in downtown Kigali, Annick Iriwacu is meticulously going...
Syrian refugee aid plan launched as births in exile hit 1 million
UN agencies and NGOs publish US$5.5 billion plan to help refugees and host countries in 2019-2020, as number of Syrian children born as refugees reaches one million. By Charlie Dunmore AMMAN, Jordan – A typically boisterous two-year-old with distinctive blonde hair...
UNHCR urges protection of Yemeni civilians
This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Shabia Mantoo – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today’s press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Nearly 1,500 civilian casualties were reported in Yemen in the period between August...
Millions of Congolese families lose homes in conflict
Displaced by ongoing attacks in conflict zones such as the DRC’s Ituri and North Kivu provinces, many families now live in makeshift shelters or temporary accommodation. For those displaced by unrelenting conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) the...
Deaf refugee choir warms hearts at Christmas
In Lebanon, refugee choir featuring deaf Syrian children and locals and a 160-strong ensemble including refugee performers help to spread some seasonal cheer. With their hands signing the words and music connected to their ears through cochlear implants, a group of...
Syrian family among millions relying on aid to survive winter
In northern Jordan, Syrian refugee Hilal relies on assistance to get his family through the harsh winter, with millions more in the region needing similar help. As the fierce summer heat of Jordan’s northern desert gives way to cold winter nights, 44-year-old Hilal...