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UN: Urgent support needed in Greece for refugees
19.06.2015 08:02 "Agro Perspectiva" (Kyiv) —
A humanitarian crisis in Greece can be avoided with the support from European Union member states and regional institutions, UN Radio says referring to the UNHCR (UN Refugee Agency) recent report.
As to the report, initial reception conditions for refugees arriving in Greece’s North Aegean and Dodecanese islands are worsening despite the considerable efforts of local authorities and civil society.
Reportedly, hundreds of refugees continue to arrive in Greece every day in inflatable dinghies and wooden boats, putting a tremendous strain on the island communities that receive them.
They are mainly heading to the island of Lesvos, Chios, Kos, Leros and Samos.
Over 90% are from countries experiencing conflict and instability (mainly Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia).
As to the report, the number of arrivals is expected to increase further during the summer, when weather conditions make the sea crossing from the Turkish mainland less hazardous.
Reportedly, since early this year, over 55,000 refugees have arrived in Greece by sea from Turkey.
As to the report, presently private citizens, local volunteers and non-governmental organizations distribute food, water, shoes and clothes to the refugees.
«UNHCR is ready to continue working with the Greek authorities and civil society in order to address some of these challenges, but greater support from EU Member States and institutions is urgently needed to avoid a humanitarian crisis,» William Spindler, UNHCR Spokesperson, stressed.
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