The initiative, called the “They Are Waiting for You” project, was announced at a joint press conference held at the Fatih Neslişah S Cultural Centre in Istanbul, spearheaded by the Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH).
The project aims to centralize and streamline humanitarian aid efforts, ensuring that donations are utilized effectively across conflict zones and disaster-affected regions, including Gaza, Syria, East Turkistan, Lebanon, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Somalia.
Bülent Yıldırım, President of IHH, explained the importance of the initiative, which addresses inefficiencies in aid distribution caused by conditional donations often restricted to specific regions.
“For instance, when aid is directed exclusively to Gaza and logistical routes are blocked, donations can remain unused for extended periods. This new system allows us to pool resources and redirect them flexibly to regions where they are urgently needed,” Yıldırım said.
Under the project, NGOs will consolidate donations into a single fund, enabling coordinated aid delivery to multiple crisis zones without regional limitations.
“This is not just an IHH project; it is a collective movement by all participating NGOs,” Yıldırım emphasized. “Our unified approach ensures that every region in need—whether it’s Gaza, Lebanon, or Sudan—receives timely support.”
The coalition’s work extends beyond conflict zones, targeting areas affected by climate-induced disasters and long-term crises. Yıldırım noted that the majority of victims of war and displacement are Muslim communities but stressed that the project transcends religious, ethnic, and linguistic boundaries.
“This war isn’t confined to Gaza; it’s a global crisis. Humanity as a whole is suffering, and we are committed to helping all those in need,” he added.
The coalition has already demonstrated its capability by organizing aid shipments to Gaza, Sudan, and Lebanon. As part of this project, additional shipments are planned, ensuring a steady flow of resources to affected regions.
Leaders of participating NGOs hailed the initiative as a milestone in humanitarian coordination. Talat Yavuz, Secretary General of Memur-Sen, underlined the importance of sustained solidarity:
“Crises often fade from public attention after the initial media spotlight. This project ensures that aid continues to reach those in need based on real-time priorities.”
Erdal Elibüyük, Vice President of Hope Caravan, highlighted the challenge of donor fatigue, especially in prolonged crises like Gaza. “Consistency is key. We must maintain our commitment to support long-term recovery efforts,” he said.
Rıdvan Kaya, President of Özgür Der, praised Türkiye’s leadership in global humanitarian aid:
“Providing for our brothers and sisters is not just an act of charity; it’s our shared responsibility. This project allows us to fulfill that duty systematically and effectively.”
The “They Are Waiting for You” project represents a paradigm shift in how humanitarian aid is delivered. By fostering collaboration among NGOs and centralizing resources, Türkiye’s NGOs aim to set a global standard for efficiency and solidarity in humanitarian efforts.
As crises continue to multiply worldwide, this initiative offers hope to millions of affected individuals, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most—swiftly, effectively, and without discrimination. (ILKHA)
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