By Laura McCartan | Digital Communications Officer
This year has been incredibly difficult for us at Refugee Rescue. We started the year with constantly increasing new arrivals, and deaths at sea within the first few days of the year. At the end of January, the closure of Stage 2, the transit camp where new arrivals could spend a night and receive a warm meal, was confirmed. Increasing unrest from some of the local population began, partly due to the lack of support from the European Union, and partly due to the plans to build a closed detention centre on the Island.
At the end of February, Turkey opened their borders and we saw a large influx of arrivals, followed by increasing violence and a fascist response. Unfortunately, there were deaths due to capisizing boats during this time, and almost daily violence directed at asylum seekers and aid workers. The videos of stage 2 in flames showed the escalating tensions on the Island. Despite this, Refugee Rescue stayed on call 24/7 providing assistance to those in need.
In March we faced a new threat: Covid-19. With our rescue boat MoChara out of the water for maintenance, we decided we could not risk the safety of our crew, the people of Skala, or importantly, the safety of new arrivals. Our home town of Skala Sikamineas saw a complete lockdown and it was not possible to continue our work at sea.
However, we are not discouraged. We have continued working harder than ever to advocate for safe passage, reflect on our work so far, and on all of the people that make that possible. We are pleased to say that we are currently planning our return to Lesvos, working hard to ensure that we are back as soon as the situation allows. This involves a great deal of planning from our team, and all are as passionate and determined as ever to continue supporting rescues on the North Shore. We believe our team are needed now more than ever on the North Shore to ensure that those fleeing persecution receieve the support they deserve.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continuing support. It keeps us going even when it seems like a difficult task, knowing that we have a strong community behind us. We are excited about the coming months, getting back to the water and our upcoming advocacy plans. We are incredibly grateful for our worldwide crew and all that you do to support us, and spread the message of our work.
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