Lausanne, Switzerland, February 10, 2023: The Olympic Movement has announced a USD 1 million emergency fund to help the Olympic community, refugees and displaced people in areas affected by the earthquake in Türkiye and Syria.
Following the devastating earthquake that hit Türkiye and Syria, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), the European Olympic Committees (EOC) and the Olympic Refuge Foundation (ORF) will donate a total of USD 1 million to help the Olympic community in the areas affected by the natural disaster.
The IOC and OCA will each give USD 250,000, EOC will give EUR 250,000, while the ORF will make available an additional amount of USD 260,000 for immediate emergency assistance to the local population and refugees in Türkiye.
“It is with great sadness that we have learnt of the tragic loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake that has struck the south-eastern region of Türkiye and Syria,” said IOC President Thomas Bach.
“I have spoken to the NOC President of Türkiye and the NOC President of Syria and have heard from them about the impact the earthquake has had on many members of the Olympic community.
“Unfortunately, there are a number of athletes and members of the Olympic community among the victims, while many others have lost their homes and sports infrastructure has been heavily damaged.”
The IOC President added: “We discussed how best to support the members of the Olympic community. As a result of the conversations, we have agreed with the OCA, the EOC and the ORF to take immediate action.
“Our first-response emergency assistance in Türkiye will be channelled through the Olympic Refuge Foundation and their partners on site. In Syria, we will work with international NGOs and UN agencies that are able to access the affected areas. We have learnt that the biggest need at the moment is for food, medicine and tents.”
In consideration of the devastating impact on them, their families and the host community, the ORF contribution will be used for humanitarian assistance, such as providing clothes, blankets, food and shelter.
Source: www.olympics.com