Humanitarian Assistance and Protection in Sri Lanka - ICRC Appeal 2009

For over two decades a civil war has raged in Sri Lanka between the Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Despite the end of hostilities in May 2009 the humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka continues to be of concern. Approximately 300 000 internally displaced people (IDPs) are now located in government-controlled camps and transit sites. As of mid-August a small number of the displaced have begun to return home. The massive influx of IDP placed severe strain on the humanitarian services available. The key challenges include: insufficient access to food and potable water poor sanitation overcrowded conditions over-stretched health and education infrastructure and protection concerns for vulnerable populations and people with special needs. CIDA's contribution is helping to support the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to provide protection medical assistance and improved access to shelter and water and sanitation services to conflict-affected displaced populations in Northern Sri Lanka. ICRC activities include: detainee visits and work with demobilized child soldiers; the provision of emergency surgical and medical care; the provision of improved access to safe drinking water and sanitation facilities; and the provision of emergency shelter.