An estimated four million refugees will flee Syria by the end of 2014. Three percent (81,000) of these displaced persons have pursued protection in the European Union, Switzerland, and Norway. The European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE), in harmony with over 100 partners representing 34 countries, commenced Europe Act Now on 6 March, 2014.
To protect refugees escaping the conflict in Syria, Europe Act Now calls upon European leaders to act. Actions endorsed include:
- Provide refugees safe passage to Europe;
- Protect refugees who arrive at Europe's borders;
- Reunite families divided by the conflict.
Europe Act Now too supports a campaign to raise awareness amongst the general public through their website Helpsyriasrefugees.eu. Supporters can donate their Twitter and Facebook accounts for refugees to share their experiences on a broader stage. This component of Europe Act Now will run until World Refugee Day, 20 June, 2014.
The Future Worlds Center's Humanitarian Affairs Unit is an active partner in Europe Act Now, and supports the campaign to urge leaders in Europe to ensure refugees access to the benefits they are required to provide.