Interview
Concerns over impact of earthquakes in Turkey and Syria
It is with great concern that we follow reports of the severe earthquakes in Turkey and Syria and the impact this event is having on millions of people in the area. This terrible situation also affects WUR students, staff and alumni. Wassim Beaineh, manager International Cooperation and Relations for the Middle East and North Africa, is involved in the crisis response in several ways.
What is the current situation in the affected areas?
‘The situation is really, really bad. A few hours ago, the World Health Organization warned that the number of casualties could rise to more than 20.000. The needs are huge, it’s freezing, there have been cholera outbreaks, and large areas in Syria are difficult to reach due to the political situation. The consequences of the earthquakes are enormous.’
How have WUR students and staff responded to this crisis?
‘Turkish and Syrian employees and students at WUR are obviously very distressed and concerned. Several colleagues want to travel to Turkey to support the relief effort, a few are already on their way. Student organisations have launched initiatives to set up collections or raise donations for the Dutch Emergency Fund Giro 555.’
Is there anything people can do to help?
‘The best way to help is to donate to Giro 555 or to Turkish organizations. I used to work for the Red Cross, and on the ‘actiedag’ next Wednesday, I will be in Hilversum to help. I did the same after the blast in Beirut in 2020, so I know that Dutch people are very generous when it comes to disasters. They do have a lot of questions about where their donations are going, but Giro 555 is very transparent about how the funds are spent.’