Home for refugees in Santiago de Chile, Chile, December 2022

In December 2022, right after my trip to the Dominican Republic, I traveled to Chile for a monitoring visit to assess the refugee projects we supported in the country. It was a productive and fulfilling trip professionally, but I also had the chance to enjoy some time off for sightseeing.

Santiago – Meetings and Refugee Centers

I began my time in Santiago, where I met with UNHCR partners and held important meetings regarding refugee support efforts. During my visit to refugee centers in the city, I met many Venezuelan refugees who were in the process of adjusting to life in Chile. The challenges they faced were significant, with many struggling to find secure housing, jobs, and access to social services.

The work being done by local organisations and international partners to support these communities is critical, and it was rewarding to see firsthand the impact of our contributions to their efforts.

Iquique – Further Refugee Support and Project Visits

After my time in Santiago, I traveled to Iquique, located in the north of Chile. This city is one of the key entry points for migrants and refugees arriving from Venezuela and other countries. During my visit, I had the opportunity to visit a number of projects and shelters for refugees, where I learned more about the conditions in which they live and the support services available.

The situation in Iquique is challenging, but the efforts of the local government, NGOs, and UNHCR partners are making a tangible difference. I was deeply moved by the resilience of the refugees I met, who are trying to rebuild their lives in a foreign country under difficult circumstances.

Exploring Santiago and Beyond

After my professional duties, I had some free time in Santiago and took the opportunity to explore the city. I also ventured outside of the capital to visit some beautiful areas of Chile, which made my trip even more memorable.
• Pirque – A small town just outside of Santiago, surrounded by vineyards and offering peaceful views of the Andes.
• Valparaíso – This colourful coastal city is famous for its hillside houses and bohemian vibe. The views over the Pacific Ocean were stunning, and I enjoyed walking through its cobbled streets and visiting the street art galleries.
• Concón – A beautiful beach town near Valparaíso, where I enjoyed some time by the sea, exploring the sandy dunes and appreciating the quiet atmosphere.

The discovery of these places was made even more special thanks to my Colombian friend, Robyn, who owns a transport company. Robyn not only advised me on the best places to see but also made sure I was safe and well looked after during my travels. It was great to have a local perspective on the country and to experience it through the eyes of a friend.

A Memorable Stay in Chile

Overall, my time in Chile was incredibly rewarding both professionally and personally. The opportunity to see the refugee projects firsthand, meet refugees, and explore the landscapes of Santiago, Iquique, and the surrounding areas made this trip truly special. I left Chile with a deeper appreciation for the country, its people, and the ongoing work to support refugees in the region.

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Dajabon (border with Haiti) Dominican Republic, December 2022

In December 2022, I traveled to the Dominican Republic for humanitarian work, specifically to support our UNHCR partners in dealing with the ongoing refugee crisis caused by the Haitian migration into the Dominican Republic. This humanitarian situation has become increasingly dire due to the political instability, economic hardship, and violent unrest in Haiti, which has forced many Haitians to seek refuge in neighbouring countries.

Santo Domingo – Coordination and Meetings

My trip began in Santo Domingo, where I had several meetings with UN colleagues, humanitarian partners, and the EU Delegation to assess the situation and discuss strategies for providing assistance. The Dominican Republic has been the primary host country for Haitian refugees, and humanitarian organisations, including the UNHCR, are working tirelessly to coordinate efforts and ensure that refugees receive the support they need.

The refugee crisis has placed significant strain on the Dominican Republic’s resources, and agencies have had to develop strategies to address issues such as:
• Access to basic services like healthcare, shelter, food, and education.
• Legal and social integration of refugees who face xenophobia and discrimination in certain areas.
• Ensuring safety and protection for those at risk, especially women and children.
• Addressing border tensions, particularly in the north-western border region where many refugees cross into the Dominican Republic.

Challenges Faced by Humanitarian Organisations

Despite the challenges, the humanitarian organisations have been resilient in their response to the crisis:
• UNHCR has focused on providing protection services and has worked with local governments and other NGOs to ensure safe spaces for refugees, especially for vulnerable groups.
• Local and international NGOs have been essential in providing emergency relief, including food distribution, healthcare, and temporary shelter.
• Efforts to provide legal support have also been critical to ensure that refugees can access work permits, legal documentation, and other necessary services.

Traveling Outside the Capital – Hato del Medio Arriba and Dajabon

After the meetings in Santo Domingo, I traveled to the north-western region of the country to visit areas more directly impacted by the refugee crisis.
• Hato del Medio Arriba – A rural area where many refugees settle in makeshift shelters. I observed the challenges of accessing basic resources in these areas, where local communities and refugees struggle to survive.
• Dajabon – A town located near the Haitian border. Here, I witnessed the humanitarian efforts firsthand. The border area has become a critical point of entry for many Haitian refugees, and local NGOs and international organisations work closely to provide immediate assistance to people as they cross.

The Humanitarian Response in Action

The situation in these regions is difficult, but it was inspiring to see the efforts of humanitarian organisations working together to address the crisis. I saw firsthand the impact of coordinated relief efforts, especially in areas like Dajabon, where refugees were provided with food aid, temporary shelters, and medical care. It was clear that despite the scale of the crisis, collaboration between local communities, government authorities, and NGOs was essential to ensure that basic needs were met and refugees could receive life-saving assistance.

Reflections on the Crisis and Humanitarian Work

The Haitian refugee crisis in the Dominican Republic is a complex humanitarian emergency that continues to evolve, but the resilience and dedication of humanitarian workers are truly inspiring. While challenges remain, humanitarian organisations are making a significant difference in the lives of thousands of refugees, offering hope and support in a time of great need.

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