(February 08, 2016) –
MISSISSAUGA, Ont. (February 8, 2016) – World Vision Canada acknowledges the Government of Canada’s announcement today that it would cease airstrikes against ISIS by February 22.
But there are additional steps that can and should be taken to end this conflict, according to the international aid agency.
Canadian political solutions that can help end the Syrian conflict and save lives:
- Immediately promote political solutions that would ensure unhindered humanitarian access to hundreds of thousands of people in need.
- Offer the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Mr. Staffan de Mistura, the clout of Canada's diplomatic expertise and experience to contribute to peace efforts.
- Advocate the inclusion of children and youth, Canadian and Syrian alike, in any and all peace efforts.
Quotes:
“There has been and continues to be too much suffering, particularly of children. We need additional solutions to end this conflict. We’re asking Canada to demonstrate leadership by working with the international community to ensure unhindered humanitarian access, ensuring aid can reach some of the world’s most vulnerable children. The Syrian conflict has impacted the lives of millions of people, particularly children. The conflict is stealing a safe and stable future from generations of children across the region.”
-Michael Messenger, President of World Vision Canada
“This crisis, now reaching its fifth year, has gone on far too long. We can’t lose sight of the fact that the only solution to the Syrian crisis is to end the conflict. That’s why I encourage the Government of Canada to pursue additional political solutions. We’re asking Canada to be a champion of the peace process because peace is the only solution that will end this devastating humanitarian crisis.”
-Michael Messenger, President of World Vision Canada
Fast Facts:
- UN Syria Humanitarian Appeal $3 billion short of what is urgently needed
- 13.5 million people inside Syria are in need of urgent emergency relief
- 2.1 million children inside Syria are currently out of school
- 50 Syrian families uprooted from their homes every hour of every day since the conflict began