JAKARTA, Indonesia – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, announced the launch of a new local campaign to raise awareness and support for people forced to flee their homes. The campaign, titled “Look Closer” or “Lihat Lebih Dekat” in Bahasa, highlights the plight of refugees, forcibly displaced individuals and stateless people, particularly the Rohingya.
A Muslim minority from Myanmar, the Rohingya, are one of the most persecuted minorities in the world. They have endured decades of brutal violence, persecution, and continued displacement. Sadeqa Bibi, a Rohingya refugee – as seen in the image below – was forced to flee Myanmar in the wake of the killing of her husband in a bomb blast. She and her only child have survived until now, but their journey is far from over.
Sadeqa Bibi, a Rohingya Refugee from Myanmar © UNHCR/Amanda Jufrian
“The time is now for us to focus our efforts on the urgency of the refugee crisis and this campaign helps us to do that,” said Francis Teoh, UNHCR Representative to Indonesia. “Through compelling visuals and personal stories, we aim to connect with the public on a human level and inspire them to take action.”
Many Rohingya refugees, like Sadeqa, have been forced to flee via perilous journeys at sea – journeys marked by hunger, thirst, extreme weather, and often, death. If refugees do manage to survive the high seas, the needs for emergency food, shelter, and mental health support is at a critical level. UNHCR cannot do it alone.
The “Look Closer” campaign will thus feature a series of powerful photographs and videos, social media initiatives, public events, and partnerships with several stakeholders. It will showcase the resilience and strength of refugees and the work and commitment of UNHCR – while emphasizing the urgent need for support.
“We want people to understand that refugees are not just statistics; they are individuals with hopes, dreams, and the right to live in safety and dignity,” added Mr Teoh.
The campaign seeks to raise funds to provide refugees with essential aid such as food, shelter, and medical care; advocate for policies that protect refugees’ rights; and challenge negative perceptions surrounding refugees.
Join the movement:
About UNHCR
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for people forced to flee their homes because of conflict and persecution. We lead international efforts to protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities and stateless people. We deliver life-saving assistance, help safeguard fundamental human rights, and develop solutions that ensure people have a safe place called home where they can build a better future. We also work to ensure that stateless people are granted a nationality.
We work in over 130 countries, using our expertise to protect and care for millions.
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