UNHCR distributes 150,000 masks donated by Korean govt for Syrian refugees in Jordan

AMMAN — In support of the continuing measures to prevent the spread of the pandemic in Jordan’s refugee camps, the Republic of Korea has donated some 150,000 N95 face masks to support the COVID-19 response and recovery.

While the number of COVID-19 cases in Jordan, including in refugee camps, is stable and low, continued vigilance and adherence to health and safety measures remains essential. Over 20,000 refugees living in refugee camps in Jordan have also already received the COVID-19 vaccine, according to a UNHCR statement.

To observe the distribution of the masks, as well as other activities of the COVID-19 response and recovery in refugee camps, the ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Jordan, Lee Jae-Wan, visited Azraq camp, where he had a chance to visit the vaccination centre, the COVID-19 treatment centre, as well as Azraq’s main hospital.

In addition to the 150,000 face masks, the Korean government also contributed $1 million, which will enable UNHCR to cover existing gaps in the refugee response and address the needs and challenges of many vulnerable Syrian refugee families in Jordan, who have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While Jordan has, since the beginning, included refugees in its COVID-19 response planning, continued support from the international community, such as the flexible funding from the government of Korea, remains critical as we move into the recovery phase of the pandemic,” noted UNHCR’s Representative Dominik Bartsch.

Lee expressed his hope that the masks provided to refugees would help them fight COVID-19 and protect themselves. In particular, he pointed out the importance of protecting the more vulnerable refugees and the need to support them.

The ambassador also emphasised Korea’s commitment to continue its cooperation with Jordan and UN agencies to overcome the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis.

“UNHCR remains grateful for the support from the Korean people and is looking forward to continued and strengthened collaboration with the Korean embassy, to provide assistance and protection for the most vulnerable refugees in Jordan,” concluded the statement.