The devastation caused by the major 7.0 magnitude quake that hit Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince on Tuesday has overwhelmed national rescue operations in dealing with the consequences of the disaster. The shocking event caused a possible death toll of tens of thousands and up to three million people are affected; buildings and infrastructure have suffered extensive damage; basic services including water and electricity are in short supply or have been suspended. Normal communications have been cut off and transportation is rendered extremely precarious.
The humanitarian catastrophy has triggered prompt reactions from the international community with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon calling for support towards a tragic situation requiring a major relief effort. The PES supports the work of former US President Bill Clinton, UN Secretary General Special Envoy to Haiti.
The PES calls on the European Commission to play an active role in helping the affected areas. It is urgent to send in substantial quantities of reconnaissance and rescue teams, tents, water purification units and food. Aid groups are mobilising significantly in this common effort.
PES President Poul Nyrup Rasmussen said: "One of the poorest populations on earth has been affected immensely by this natural catastrophy. There is no time to waste for responding: from the European Commission, the International Community and European citizens. We must show our full solidarity with the Haitian people and therefore the PES supports the Solidarity fund set up by the European NGO Solidar. Let's help them now!"
Solidarity with Haiti
In order to respond to this horrifying tragedy, the PES supports Solidar's initiative of an Haiti emergency fund and calls all institutional partners and individuals to take part to this effort.
To help Haiti with a contribution in this moment of desperate need please make a Bank Transfer to:
SOLIDAR HAITI IBAN : BE53 7310 0861 1753
BIC : KREDBEBB
Account Owner : SOLIDAR
Bank KBC Arenberg Horta - Branch 3728
SOLIDAR is a European network of 53 NGOs active in over 90 countries working to advance social justice in Europe and worldwide. SOLIDAR lobbies the EU and international institutions in three primary areas: social affairs (more social Europe), international cooperation (development cooperation) and education (lifelong learning for all). For more info www.solidar.org
For further information please contact Silke Thomson on +32 476 94 22 70
