Between 2008 and 2009 conflict forced over 290,000 people to flee their homes to displacement camps in the north and east of the country. Today, one year after the end of the civil war, the security situation in Sri Lanka has greatly stabilised, but many still remain displaced from their homes, unable to return without the provision of support and services.

Large humanitarian needs remain, particularly in regards to protection and shelter but also in other areas such as de-mining, water and sanitation, health and livelihoods, all of which needs to be addressed through a coordinated approach. With large numbers waiting to return home, this urgent assistance must be delivered to ensure that there is no risk of continuing displacement or loss of lives.

As the lead agency for shelter and non-food items, it is part of UNHCR’s responsibility to provide these services to those who desperately need them. But low levels of funding have delayed progress, temporarily halting important initiatives such as the Shelter Grant Programme. Thanks to generous contributions the Shelter Programme was able to resume, helping over 18,000 families, but numerous other projects require your generosity.

UNHCR needs your support if this work is to continue.

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