Based on the latest developments in the Middle East, it seems as if many world leaders and leaders within the region are equally concerned with the potential humanitarian crises. With the previous stories in regards to the military conflicts in the area, it seems as if many are turning their attention to civilians who are at risk. Both IGOs like the United Nations, and NGOs like UNFPA and Save the Children are seeking ways to protect civilians. With a primary focus on women and children, these organizations are trying to find methods of providing protection and aid as the conflict rages on around them. With an extreme refugee crisis, and many more people internally displaced in both Syria and Yemen, it’s unsurprising that there are several issues surrounding these conflicts. There are millions of people starving in Yemen as the conflict between the Houthi rebellion and the central government rages on. This famine and several disease outbreaks have caused thousands of deaths to date in the rebel-controlled region of the country. Additionally, UNFPA is working extensively on protection for women and girls. There has been an ongoing concern for the sexual well-being of women who have been displaced by regional conflict. In many cases, there have been forced pregnancies and marriages that have been a result of poor protection, lack of family planning, and societal stigmas. Currently, it’s hard to imagine that any progress can be made because of these regional conflicts. Though it will be difficult, there are people in need who badly need aid in order to survive. Bashar Al-Assad has already worsened these humanitarian crises with his use of chemical weapons, and with continued attacks it is more than likely that thousands of civilian lives are still to be lost. It’s good to know that there are many organizations that are working to protect those who can’t defend themselves from the conflicts that have displaced them from their homes.
