Her Highness’ call for action coincides with World Refugee Day 2017

Sharjah, 19 June 2017

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, UNHCR Eminent Advocate for Refugee Children and Chairperson of the Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), has strongly urged world leaders to escalate all relief efforts to control the unprecedented global refugee crisis, restoring peace and stability in countries and regions affected by war and unrest. 

Her Highness’s call, which aims to double-up global efforts to end the plight of refugees and associated humanitarian tragedies that threaten the future of younger generations, coincides with the World Refugee Day being celebrated on 20 June this year.   

Her Highness highlighted that the unacceptable humanitarian conditions of refugees and internally displaced peoples (IDPs) against the backdrop of an alarmingly multiplying number fleeing their home countries in recent years requires efforts stronger than ever before to reverse the situation and restore peace. She underlined that international community contributions should not be limited to just relief aid and moral support, away from strategising on more practicable and effective solutions to end the plight of refugees.

“This year, World Refugee Day coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, prompting us to take a moment to remember the courage and determination of millions of refugees worldwide show in their battle to overcome the ordeal of displacement from their homelands, in the hope that one day they will be able to rebuild peaceful futures for their children and their countries,” Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi emphasised.

“Our duty towards displaced people across the globe is exemplified in lending them a helping hand to heal their wounds, fulfil their needs and put a smile on their faces. We must all work sincerely to resolve this grave humanitarian crisis. The values of humanity and goodness deeply rooted in our society prompt us strongly to spare no efforts in doing whatever possible in creating a just and tolerant world, one that will guarantee a better future for all humanity. This is the best gift we can give to bring hope and joy back into their lives,” Her Highness added.  

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher called on media to take more real-life stories to their readers, highlighting the unthinkable suffering and sacrifices of refugees, especially women, children and the elderly. She said it is of utmost importance that the more fortunate experience their defiance, patience and hope through these stories, which will serve as an incentive for individuals and organisations to offer the much-needed support and aid these people require.

Expressing strong hope that displaced people all over the world will soon be able to return to their homes, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher said: “I hope that conflicts and wars in every region of the world where they exist will come to an end in the very near future, so all refugees who have been forced to leave their countries can return home, rebuild their nations, and enjoy everlasting peace.”

Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher reiterated that she will continue to work within UNHCR and TBHF to bring relief to refugees, give them hope, and improve their living conditions.