Coronavirus Emergency Situation - UNHCR Israel
Coronavirus Emergency Situation - UNHCR Israel
In Israel, an estimated 80% of asylum-seekers have lost their jobs due to the economic consequences of the pandemic. Because of their unique legal status, asylum-seekers are not entitled to the social security benefits like unemployment or national health insurance that provide a safety net to Israeli citizens. Many asylum-seekers fear they will go hungry or be unable to pay their rent and evicted. UNHCR Israel is working with local partners to ensure asylum-seekers have access to health care, COVID-19 testing and information, food, education, shelter, and psychosocial support.
The three most simple steps you can take to protect refugees, yourself, and other from COVID-19 are:
You can also go the extra step. To help safeguard refugees who are especially vulnerable to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, you can volunteer with one of our partner organizations on a cause like food distribution, donate to UNHCR, and advocate for the inclusion of refugees in COVID-19 response plans by raising awareness of their situation amongst your community, municipality, and policymakers.
To learn more about the COVID-19 situation, current initiatives, and how to protect yourself and others, please visit: