UAE's Comprehensive Humanitarian Response to Afghan Evacuees: A Model of Compassion and Support
In the wake of the Taliban’s swift takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) emerged as a critical haven for those fleeing the ensuing chaos. As reported by the Abu Dhabi-based news agency, WAM, the UAE has successfully hosted a staggering 17,619 Afghan evacuees, providing a spectrum of humanitarian aid through the Emirates Humanitarian City. The city has served as a temporary sanctuary prior to the resettlement of these individuals in 21 countries, embodying the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian assistance during times of crisis.
The breadth of support extended to these evacuees has been multifaceted and extensive. With a total expenditure amounting to AED 1.384 billion (approximately 7 million), the UAE has ensured that evacuees receive high-quality accommodation, medical care, food supplies, and logistical support. The response has not only been swift but exceptionally organized, featuring dedicated embassy offices and representatives from key international organizations such as the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). These entities have played instrumental roles in facilitating the resettlement process, demonstrating a collaborative effort that transcends borders in the face of human suffering.
Beyond immediate necessities, the UAE has extended financial assistance to families, equipping them with the resources required to rebuild their lives post-resettlement. This pragmatic approach is vital, as the evacuees face the daunting challenge of starting anew in foreign environments, often with little more than the clothes on their backs.
Moreover, the UAE’s humanitarian endeavors have not been confined to resettlement facilitation alone. The Emirates Humanitarian City has witnessed a remarkable delivery of over 254,000 medical services, highlighting the country’s capacity to provide essential healthcare services during a global health crisis. Notably, 34,923 COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered to evacuees, ensuring that public health remains a priority amidst resettlement efforts. The medical infrastructure has proven effective, with over 303 newborns receiving necessary care and 303 surgeries carried out successfully, including the transportation of three critical cases to facilities abroad for more specialized treatment.
The educational needs of the evacuees have not been overlooked. The UAE has recognized the importance of equipping the Afghan community with skills to navigate their new lives. Over 3,764 Afghans have benefitted from educational initiatives, with a significant number of children enrolled in nursery and schooling programs. In addition, 39 educational and skills development courses have been organized, emphasizing vocational training that has aided 2,589 individuals in preparing for future employment opportunities.
In terms of community well-being, the Emirates Humanitarian City has been designed with empathy in mind. Outdoor courtyards and recreational spaces have been established to promote social interaction and mental wellness, particularly among vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly. Furthermore, a preventive healthcare center serves as a primary resource for ongoing health management, reinforcing the UAE’s holistic approach to humanitarian aid.
In the larger context of international assistance to Afghanistan, the UAE stands out as one of the leading donor countries. Over the past three years, it has contributed AED 740 million in humanitarian aid, which includes establishing crucial supply airlifts carrying hundreds of tonnes of food and relief materials, benefiting more than one million Afghans. Additionally, the UAE has invested in establishing ten maternity and women’s healthcare centers across seven provinces, demonstrating a commitment to improve women’s health in Afghanistan.
As the international community continues to grapple with the consequences of Afghanistan’s political upheaval, the UAE’s model of humanitarian assistance serves as a benchmark for effectively addressing the immediate and long-term needs of displaced populations. This instance not only reflects a commitment to compassion and humanitarian ideals but also underscores the importance of collaboration among nations for effective crisis management.
In conclusion, the UAE’s extensive programs and policies aimed at supporting Afghan evacuees are a testament to the power of unity in responding to humanitarian crises. The efforts being made underscore a message of resilience and hope, emphasizing that the plight of individuals can rally nations to act in solidarity in times of profound need.
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