Mr Kyriakos Hatzigiannis, Member of Parliament, Special Representative for Civil Society Participation of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
In the context of a discussion on the war in Ukraine, Mr Hatzigiannis stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire and intensification of efforts to find a diplomatic solution.
Referring in particular to the humanitarian crisis, Hatzigiannis stressed the urgent need to further increase humanitarian aid for refugees who have fled Ukraine, as well as for those who remain in the country without access to basic goods and services.
Noting that, according to the UN, the situation in Ukraine has triggered the fastest deteriorating refugee crisis since World War II, Hatzigianni stressed the need for international forces to secure humanitarian corridors. He also expressed appreciation for the important work carried out by governmental authorities, European and international organizations and NGOs in Ukraine's neighboring countries for the reception and relief of refugees. Hatzigianni particularly stressed the need for immediate protection and support for unaccompanied children crossing the border, warning that the risk of trafficking in persons lurks, even in emergency situations.
(IK)
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