Deadly Earthquake in Syria and Turkey
Thousands of children and families are in immediate danger.
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Thousands of children and families are at risk after two devastating earthquakes and dozens of aftershocks hit southeastern Turkey and Syria on 6 February 2023.
More than 44,000 people are estimated to have been killed, according to the authorities in both countries, while thousands more have been injured. Thousands of homes have been severely damaged or completely destroyed, leaving many people without shelter, facing additional threats to their survival from the cold winter temperatures. Schools, hospitals and other medical and educational facilities have been damaged or destroyed by the earthquakes, further affecting children.
As the magnitude of the disaster continues to be assessed, UNICEF is there to respond to the needs of children and families affected by the devastating natural disaster.
UNICEF's emergency response is focused on:
- Providing drinking water and sanitation (WASH) services
- Providing temporary safe shelter
- Child protection and immediate psychosocial support services
- Nutrition and education services
- Clothing, blankets and specially designed mother-baby kits
- Operation of child-friendly spaces and temporary learning spaces
Why UNICEF doesn't collect humanitarian supplies
UNICEF chooses to provide direct financial support to the Organization's permanent offices in affected countries that coordinate the response to humanitarian crises, so that it can respond immediately to the ever-changing frontline needs. UNICEF's emergency supplies consist of the absolute essentials - ready to be shipped - which ensures immediate delivery to the affected areas with the lowest possible transport time and cost.
In Syria, children are already facing one of the most complex humanitarian situations in the world. UNICEF is supporting the humanitarian response in coordination with other international and state actors.
In Turkey, efforts are focused on rescuing those in danger. UNICEF is coordinating with the Turkish Government and other agencies, as well as with the Disaster Management and Emergency Management Presidency for the immediate humanitarian response.
Our priority is to ensure that those affected receive the support they need immediately.
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