A4EP calls for action on commitments in the earthquake response in Türkiye and North West Syria
Time and again it is the local people who save most lives in the first hours when it matters most. In Syria the first responders used their bare hands and shovels to rescue people, even while they grieve for their own loss. We want to pay tribute to thousands of local people from Türkiye and Syria who are involved in search and rescue operations in very difficult conditions putting their own lives at risk. We recognise their courage and strength. The international community failed the Syrian people by not reacting fast enough and not supporting the search and rescue teams. The earthquake has brought new suffering, increased the number of people in need, exacerbated existing needs, and hampered the ongoing response.
The international community has been invited and has responded very generously sending search and rescue teams to Türkiye which are very much needed. We would like to remind the international community of their Grand Bargain, C4C and Pledge for Change commitments to localisation. In the recovery operations, it is critical they respond in a way that supports local efforts.