Iraqi refugee camp expands to cope with overwhelming numbers
These young refugees have left everything behind.
They are among more than 600,000 people displaced by fighting in northern Iraq, according to the United Nations.
The numbers are overwhelming, which is why the camp is being extended. It was orginally set up to shelter Syrians fleeing the civil war... but now, it must also accomodate ethnic minorities fleeing Islamic State militants.
Islamic State has swept across northern and Iraq ruthlessly seizing territory, killing Yazidis and driving them from their homes.
Those who've managed to escape their refuge in the Sinjar Mountains, are now living here..
(SOUNDBITE) (English) BAHZAD AMIN, UNHCR FIELD OFFICER, SAYING:
"There are nine family (members), they spent about 10 days on Sinjar mountain, they told me they left everything behind."
More sewage systems are being installed, tents are being brought in and food is in constant demand.
...and the UN says more refugee camps like these will have
They are among more than 600,000 people displaced by fighting in northern Iraq, according to the United Nations.
The numbers are overwhelming, which is why the camp is being extended. It was orginally set up to shelter Syrians fleeing the civil war... but now, it must also accomodate ethnic minorities fleeing Islamic State militants.
Islamic State has swept across northern and Iraq ruthlessly seizing territory, killing Yazidis and driving them from their homes.
Those who've managed to escape their refuge in the Sinjar Mountains, are now living here..
(SOUNDBITE) (English) BAHZAD AMIN, UNHCR FIELD OFFICER, SAYING:
"There are nine family (members), they spent about 10 days on Sinjar mountain, they told me they left everything behind."
More sewage systems are being installed, tents are being brought in and food is in constant demand.
...and the UN says more refugee camps like these will have
Category
🗞
News