Pakistan Emergency

Internal Violence Displaces Millions

Newly arrived displaced children at Jalala camp. © UNHCR/ A. Rummery

In 2010 Pakistan faces new challenges.
In spring of 2009, a surge of violence between the army and militants in the Swat Valley created a humanitarian crisis, forcing millions of innocent civilians to flee their homes in search of shelter and protection. While many have returned to their homes, over one million men, women and children remain displaced and in need of basic assistance.

As the cold winter approaches, the UN Refugee Agency is distributing extra relief supplies to thousands of displaced families, including all-weather tents that will provide extra protection against freezing wind and snow.
While thousands of civilians have returned to their homes in Swat Valley, many others are still wary. An elderly man, who has been displaced three times from his home, feels reluctant to return, saying “I don’t know what is going on in my area, which was once famous for hospitality and peace.”

In recent weeks, clashes between the Pakistan army and militants have extended into South Waziristan, where tens of thousands of new families have been forced to flee their villages. In response to the recent violence, UNHCR is distributing 35,000 tents, kitchen sets, clean water, quilts and sleeping mats to those in need.
Providing shelter, clean water, health care and other critical aid has proven difficult in a volatile political and security situation such as Pakistan. Despite the challenges we face, innocent and vulnerable victims of war rely on the protection and life-saving assistance that the UN Refugee Agency provides. In the coming months, UNHCR will continue to provide shelter and provide critical resources to displaced families until they can safely return to their homes.

Please help the UN Refugee Agency provide critical shelter and lifesaving assitance to displaced families in Pakistan.