Due to the lack of a humane response by Europe, thousands of refugees fleeing violence and persecution continue to lose their lives and their dignity. Last week the EU and Turkey reached an illogical and unethical deal that will only mean more indignity, more disorder, more dangerous journeys and more lives lost. This is a desperate situation. Addressing it is not beyond reach, but European states must take urgent action now.

The war in Syria has raged on for six years, causing a staggering 11 million people to flee for their lives — the largest refugee crisis of our time. More than 6 million are displaced inside the country, and nearly 5 million have fled to nearby countries in search of safety. But many, including the 1.7 million Syrians registered in neighbouring Jordan and Lebanon, are living in precarious circumstances.