UNICEF: Assessing massive displacement in Pakistan

JALALA CAMP, Pakistan, 26 May 2009 The hot summer sun beat down as UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia Dan Toole walked around Jalala camp. Mr Toole was here last week to see how UNICEF is supporting those affected by the biggest population displacement in Pakistan's history.

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Since 2 May, more than 1.5 million people have been displaced by fighting between militants and government forces in north-west Pakistan. This massive displacement has stretched government, UN and local communities resources to the utmost. Many new camps have had to be quickly established to accommodate the influx.

"Many of the people here have left behind everything they owned," said Mr. Toole. "Given the numbers of people involved, quickly deploying assistance and resources to where they are most needed has meant the difference between life and death.

This includes basics like safe drinking water, nutritional support and vaccinations to prevent diseases from spreading like wildfire in crowded camp conditions," he added.

To read the full story, visit: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/pakistan_49799.htm