A Syrian mother stopping with her family on the island of Lesbos, Greece — one of more than half a million desperate people who have fled to Europe this year from countries in chaos.

This month marks ten years of the war in Syria. And in this past decade, attacks on healthcare facilities have tragically become a hallmark of the conflict. Even though health facilities are protected under international law, attacks have persisted, destroying hospitals, killing medical personnel, and preventing many from accessing lifesaving care—including during the pandemic.

The IRC is on the ground across Europe working with governments, municipalities and local organisations to meet the immediate and critical needs of those seeking refuge, and to support the effective integration of refugees into their new communities. The IRC has offices in Berlin, Bonn, Brussels, Geneva and London, and in partnership with the Netherlands Refugee Foundation, also has a presence in the Hague.