by Taylor Kilgore
It is often easy to think of problems such as the Syrian refugee crisis as being out of our control. However, Dr. Gregory Dixon from the University of West Georgia’s political science department recently gave a brief synopsis of what is going on in Syria and how UWG students and community members can help.
Photo credit: Michael Frazier
The mass fleeing from Syria began four years ago when an uprising began against the Assad government. Since this time, violence has escalated substantially and the Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS) has emerged. The death toll has risen to above 220,000 as of February 2015, but the most concerning crisis is the number of people displaced from the conflict in Syria.
The civil war has caused 55 percent of Syria’s population of 22 million to be driven from their homes, leaving almost four million refugees to be registered with the United Nations outside of Syria. The remaining 7,632,500 people are still displaced within Syria. This massive displacement has long-term costs, as 52 percent of Syria’s refugees are children.
“This is an entire generation whose normal development is disrupted,” Dr. Dixon said, “meaning a generation is growing up without a concept or normal civil order.”
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other non-profit organizations have asked for donations in the amount of $4.53 billion for 20 million people. That totals to $225.50 per refugee for the entire year, which is the minimal ration amount for survival. At this time, only $1.06 billion have been received, leaving only $53.00 per refugee.
“We can have an enormous impact with relatively little effort where we are,” Dr. Dixon said. “If we want to do more, the opportunities are wide open.”
Currently, the UNHCR, the American Red Cross, and hundreds of nonprofit organizations are offering aid. In Georgia, the International Rescue Committee, Refugee Women’s Network, and other local nonprofits are helping, but others can contribute significantly. One of the most effective and least time consuming ways is by donating money. Direct sites, such as the UNHCR and the American Red Cross are an option, but there are others that take small amounts every time you shop at your normal location: Kroger Community Rewards Donations and Amazon Smile.
Other ways to help the crisis include volunteering, internships, service learning, and lobbying. Volunteer for nonprofit organizations within Carrollton or on the national level through the American Red Cross or UNHCR. Internships are offered through multiple avenues, including social media marketing, communications, and other avenues to build one’s resume. Lobby for more aid to support help in the region or just to let your elected officials know how you feel about the issue.
No matter how you choose to act, anyone can make a positive impact and improve the condition of those so heavily affected by violence.
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