New EU approach to better support displaced people
May 2, 2016
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The European Commission set out a new strategic vision last Tuesday 26 April 2016 regarding how its external action can best support refugees and displaced people in long lasting crises.
The aim of this new approach, outlined in the Communication “Lives in Dignity: from Aid–dependence to Self-reliance”, is to prevent refugees and displaced people relying only on emergency humanitarian assistance. It looks at ways to help them become more self-reliant in the countries where they reside.
EU Commissioner for Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations, Johannes Hahn, said: “The Syrian conflict and its devastating effect on the population have resulted in a displacement of epic proportions. We need to use this experience to adapt our policies, both internal and external, to ensure dignity and hope to those who have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety. We have mobilised considerable resources, including innovative measures like the EU-Syria Trust Fund, but the needs are even greater and need to be addressed with a sustainable, long-term approach“.
The policy framework highlighted in today’s Communication will be a major part of the EU’s contribution to the World Humanitarian Summit on 23-24 May 2016 and contribute to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. (EU Neighbourhood Info)