UNHCR concerned about the deepening crisis in Sri Lanka

May 6 , 2009

Dear Educator,

As tens of thousands of civilians continue to flee the conflict in Sri Lanka, UNHCR is responding to the deepening emergency unfolding in the country's north. About 171,000 internally displaced people (IDPs) have fled heavy fighting between government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), mostly during the last two weeks.

 

UNHCR and its partners have mounted a massive humanitarian operation, providing shelter and emergency kits to assist these women, men and children who are staying in 38 displacement sites in the north and east of the country. UNHCR is also concerned about the security of the displaced and has sent emergency teams to closely monitor the situation.

 

World Refugee Day Poster Contest

 

UNHCR will sponsor its World Refugee Day poster contest, under the continued patronage of UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Angelina Jolie. The deadline for submissions is Friday, May 15, 2009. Download the entry form and contest guidelines.

World Refugee Day is June 20. Learn more about this year's theme, Real People, Real Needs, how to organize an event in your area and request a free World Refugee Day poster.

 

 

A group of internally displaced people in Sri Lanka. UNHCR has stepped up its emergency response in the north of the country. © UNHCR/G. Amarasinghe



Sri Lanka Airlift

To help those displaced by the recent violence in Sri Lanka, UNHCR has launched a humanitarian airlift. Visit the UNHCR video gallery to view the Sri Lanka airlift.

Visit UNHCR's resource page for the latest news, photos, videos and maps of Sri Lanka.

Request UNHCR's latest video, Global View 2009, a general overview of the world-wide refugee situation.

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