We are hearing many voices of concern from Island residents concerning events in Afghanistan.
Even before the Taliban takeover, the UN projected that some 12 million people (30% of the population) would face insecurity and malnutrition. 3.5 million are displaced and this number can be expected to rise. The UN has called on neighbouring states to keep their borders open to those fleeing. We are suggesting that anyone wishing to help in the short term consider donations to charities which are already working with those in need of humanitarian assistance in Afghanistan as well as those who have fled. These include the British Red Cross, UNICEF, International Rescue Committee and the UN Refugee Agency.
The UK Government is setting up a scheme to resettle 20,000 Afghan refugees over the next five years. The One World Centre fully supports the Isle of Man’s proportionate participation in such a scheme. We understand that the Government’s External Relations department has already had conversations with their UK counterparts on this issue and the External Relations team will brief the new administration after the General Election is concluded. Many charities in the UK have been overwhelmed with donations of clothes and household items for incoming Afghan families so please note we are not collecting at the present time.
