"When a country is physically destroyed, its people dying and fleeing and a state and its services collapsing, the most important thing a neighbour can do is to keep the borders open. The Kurdistan region is an anchor of peace and stability in a very troubled part of the world," said Guterres. He joined Cousin in pledging to mobilize massive international support.
The two officials met the president of the Kurdistan region, Massoud Bazarni, who offered his commitment to continue welcoming Syrians fleeing to his region.
The governor of Erbil, Nawzad Hadi, spoke of the need for camps that can be expanded and equipped for growing numbers and changing weather. He warned: "Time is not our friend. We need to prepare for winter."
The minister of the interior, Karim Sinjari, who also visited the camp, declared his commitment to hosting refugees but noted that resources were stretched and hoped the international community would significantly step up support.
Beyond camp management, UNHCR registers refugees, which provides identification and assessment of individual needs so appropriate services can be provided. UNHCR also coordinates the response of specialized UN and NGO partners. All UNHCR work is done in close coordination with regional authorities.
WFP provides US$31 per month for every family member in the form of food vouchers. "That translates into $10.5 million worth of business to local shops," Cousin said. "Through these vouchers, refugees are providing commerce to these communities while also having access to fresh and nutritious food."
Cousin noted that support from the international community is essential as needs continue to grow. WFP's programme costs US$30 million per week to feed Syrians in Syria and neighbouring countries.
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