The Commission is announcing €26 million in humanitarian aid to support vulnerable refugees and their host communities in Türkiye. The southeastern region in Türkiye near the Syria border hosts a large number of the country’s refugee population.
The same region witnessed one of the worst earthquakes in Türkiye’s modern history, resulting in thousands of deaths, and extensive destruction of infrastructure and housing, worsening the situation for many of the already vulnerable refugees.
This new funding will address the most critical humanitarian needs stemming from the aftermath of the earthquakes and the regional refugee crisis.
Out of the €26 million, €4 million is earmarked for education in emergencies. The new funding will also provide protection services to vulnerable communities, like asylum seekers, and people affected by the earthquakes. On top of this, the EU will continue helping refugees with assistance for basic needs such as water, sanitation, hygiene, and specialized health care services.
In close cooperation with Turkish authorities, the EU continues to assist the most vulnerable people in Türkiye based on their humanitarian needs. Since 2015, the EU has supported nearly 100 humanitarian projects, and contracted with over 21 partner organisations.
Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič said: “One year ago, Türkiye was struck by earthquakes so devastating that the consequences resonate to this day. The EU reacted in immediate solidarity by providing emergency assistance to people whose lives were torn apart by the disaster. In 2024, the EU remains dedicated to addressing the most pressing humanitarian needs in Türkiye with €26 million. Our key humanitarian priorities will be ensuring access to education and providing protection to the most vulnerable communities. The EU continues to stand in solidarity with the refugees in Türkiye by providing life-saving aid to those most in need.”
