Washington DC- Today U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) released the following statement on World Refugee Day:
“Today is World Refugee Day, a recognition of the millions of people displaced by conflict worldwide, who show remarkable resilience in the face of tremendous adversity. We also recognize the dedication of humanitarian aid workers who tirelessly protect and promote the rights of refugees around the world. They help reunite families, keep children in school, and ensure that refugees have shelter, food, medical care, and clean water.
This day is especially significant, given the ongoing, violent conflict in Syria. Since 2011, the Assad regime’s brutality has pushed more than 1.6 million Syrians to seek refuge in neighboring countries, while millions more are displaced inside Syria. When I visited the Kilis refugee camp in southern Turkey in April, I heard from Syrians who, more than anything, want an end to the conflict. They are ready to return to their homes and begin rebuilding. They want a democratic, peaceful Syria free from Assad’s oppression. I am proud to support legislation, like the Syria Transition Support Act of 2013, which would authorize the U.S. to do more to meet the humanitarian needs of these refugees and to bring the conflict to an end.”
###
