Bulgaria: MSF provides medical care to asylum seekers arriving in Harmanli

Inadequate humanitarian response

In their quest for safety and protection, those arriving in Harmanli confront a myriad of challenges, fleeing persistent conflicts, grappling with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, and contending with an inadequate humanitarian response.

The shifting conditions in Türkiye further propel individuals to seek sanctuary in Europe, often embarking on arduous journeys that span vast distances. The journey through Türkiye, marked by long and rough passages, is particularly grueling, compounded by the harsh winter weather and subpar living conditions in the Reception and Registration Centre (RRC) upon arrival in Bulgaria.

As people navigate this challenging landscape, their health needs intensify, exacerbated by the scarcity of medical personnel and resources in this remote area. Despite the tremendous resilience demonstrated by these individuals, their well-being is precariously balanced, and immediate attention is required to address the pressing health concerns that arise during their journey and upon reaching the Harmanli Centre.