The crisis in Syria really isn’t just a calamity for Syria. It is a region wide crisis. So far, nearly 800,000 Syrians have fled the country, the vast majority of whom escaped to Jordan, Turkey and Lebanon.
Humanitarian agencies are trying to keep up with the demand, but are struggling in part because they simply do not have the funds to meet the needs of vulnerable population. Last month, the international community pledged $1.2 billion to the humanitarian efforts in Syria and surrounding countries. That’s what they pledged, but so far only 20% of the money has been delivered. This huge funding gap means fewer blankets, tarps, medicines, food, water and other essential items to keep people alive.
The Syrian refugee crisis is primarily a women’s and children’s crisis. Men of fighting age are staying home to protect their property, or even join in the fight. In the shameful absence of any meaningful internationally backed peace process, the least the international community can do is make life a little easier for Syrian refugees.