People in Türkiye and Syria Continue the Path of Recovery One Year After the Earthquakes

Washington, DC (6 February 2024) – February 6 will mark one year since two deadly earthquakes struck Türkiye and northwest Syria, killing over 55,000 people, damaging critical civilian infrastructure, and displacing 3.3 million people. Project HOPE deployed an emergency response team within hours of the first earthquake and has maintained a long-term presence in the region with an office in Gaziantep, Türkiye, and collaboration with partners in Syria. The response has included initial search and rescue operations; providing housing containers for displaced health care workers; strengthening the health system; providing access to water, sanitation and hygiene; primary medical care, and mental health and psychosocial support.

“Last February’s earthquake goes far beyond physical injuries and property damage, it left a deep psychological mark on the people of Türkiye and Syria,” said Project HOPE’s Senor Director of Technical Strategy and Operations, John Bronson. “The sudden and traumatic nature of the disaster has led to high levels of stress, anxiety, and fear among survivors and those who've lost loved ones. Being displaced, losing homes and possessions, and facing an uncertain future have all added to the psychological distress that people in these areas are going through. For Syrian refugees already dealing with the effects of conflict in their home country, this crisis adds to an already heavy burden.”