On 13 April 2024, during his mission to Armenia, the Ambassador of Australia to Armenia, His Excellency Mr. John Geering, visited refugees and the host community of Masis, Ararat province, alongside UNHCR and UNDP colleagues. The purpose of his visit was to observe firsthand the plight of refugees and the commendable efforts extended by the host community and humanitarian organizations in providing refuge and support.
Australian Ambassador visits Masis, Armenia, 13 April 2024. © UNHCR/Anahit Hayrapetyan
Ambassador Geering visited the two shelters in Masis accommodating refugees, engaging with families, and witnessing their living conditions. With heartfelt gestures, he offered gifts and participated in a small cultural programme, amplifying the sense of solidarity amidst adversity. His Excellency met with the Masis Mayor and dedicated social workers, underscoring the collaborative efforts essential for addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable populations.
At one shelter, formerly a kindergarten awaiting renovation, Ambassador Geering interacted with refugee families, listening to their apprehensions regarding essential provisions such as housing, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The concerns shared by the refugees reflected their yearning for stability and security, despite the looming uncertainty of their future.
“We went through difficult circumstances in life, but we came to Masis and found home in this shelter – we live like one family here, in harmony and peace,” they said. “Although, we know that we’ll eventually have to leave this place… We are so anxious, uncertain – we don’t know where to go, what to do,” refugees were sharing, seeking understanding and support.
The Ambassador also visited a shelter being refurbished by UNHCR and UNDP, accommodating eighteen refugee families and acknowledged the pivotal roles of joint projects by UNDP and UNHCR to support refugees. The warm reception by host and refugees’ children, expressed through traditional dances, imbued the atmosphere with fleeting moments of solace and camaraderie. “We are thankful to Masis Municipality, social workers, international organizations and donors for your generous support and care. Without you, we wouldn’t be able to find a place to live and raise our children. We can now plan our future, live and work and feel part of the community.”
“I greatly appreciate the hospitality of Masis community, which has opened its doors to hundreds of displaced families to help them regain hope and start a new life. The Australian Government and people are aware of the challenges facing displaced persons in Armenia, and indeed in many other parts of the world. We are proud to support the vital work of the UN in helping you to overcome those challenges and rebuild your lives, wherever that may happen to be,”
said the Ambassador during his talk with refugees.
During the interactions with refugee families residing in their renovated apartments, Ambassador Geering gleaned insights into their integration within the host community and their aspirations for the future. Their expressions of gratitude towards the Masis Municipality, humanitarian organizations, and donors underscored the profound impact of collective support in restoring hope and dignity to displaced individuals.
Ambassador also met with met Zina, a resilient mother and grandmother, managing amidst displacement challenges. Graciously, she shared her delicious herbal bread and pakhlava, expressing gratitude for our support. Zina’s words resonated deeply: ‘Thank you for standing together with refugees. With your help, we can endure hardships, sustain our families, and strive towards a better future.’
The visit culminated with discussions with Masis Mayor, Mr. Davit Hambardzumyan, and Bishop Gevork Saroyan, emphasizing the role of municipalities and faith-based organizations in supporting refugees. Expressing admiration for the unwavering hospitality extended by the Masis community, Ambassador Geering conveyed Australia’s solidarity with the refugees, recognizing the resilience exhibited in the face of adversity. He expressed empathy and encouragement, resonated deeply with the refugees, instilling a sense of reassurance amidst the difficult situation.
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