The European Union Commissioner for Equality and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, visited Nurdağı, Gaziantep, to monitor about the activities of our Foundation. Lahbib, accompanied by EU, Governorate and GIZ delegation members, gathered information on the challenges faced by earthquake survivors and Syrian refugees. The delegation also conducted on-site assessments to determine the aid needs for the future.
IBC hosted important guests at its Nurdağı Aslanlı 3 camp. The delegation included EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib, the EU Ambassador to Ankara, GIZ representatives and the Deputy Governor of Gaziantep. They visited the Aslanlı 3 camp, which is home to 1,800 earthquake survivors, the majority of whom are Syrian.
The delegation was welcomed by IBC Vice President Muzaffer Baca, who presented an overview of GIZ and EU supported projects for refugees and earthquake survivors in the camp and surrounding areas. IBC Regional Coordinator Alper Mavi presented data indicating that the projects cover 95% of the beneficiaries' needs and stressed the importance of continued support.
During the visit, Hadja Lahbib engaged with families in the camp to gather their thoughts on returning to Syria. Despite the difficult living conditions, most families expressed reluctance to return at this time.
Key demographic data from the camp also drew attention:
Hadja Lahbib also visited several container houses in the camp, prioritizing discussions with women to better understand their needs and concerns.
The delegation included Mr. Bülent Özcan, Director General of the EU's Central Service for Finance and Contracts. Discussions focused on