Türkiye to become UN’s new humanitarian aid hub
The United Nations logo is seen at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on September 24, 2019. (AFP Photo)
Türkiye is set to become a central hub for the United Nations’ (U.N.) humanitarian aid operations, playing a crucial role in responding to crises in Syria, Gaza, Ukraine and beyond.
The U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) has shifted its operational focus to Türkiye, recognizing its strategic importance in global aid distribution.
UN expands operations in Türkiye
A high-level delegation from WFP, led by Deputy Executive Director Carl Skau, visited Ankara to discuss the expansion of operations. In an interview with Turkish media outlet, Hurriyet, Skau emphasized Türkiye’s significance in WFP’s logistics and procurement efforts.
“Due to its geographical location, Türkiye is our strategic partner. Over the past two years, we have made significant procurements here. In 2022-2023, we purchased $500 million worth of food and services. In 2024, we have already procured $130 million worth of food. Additionally, Türkiye serves as a logistics hub supporting Syria, Gaza, Libya and Ukraine,” Skau stated.
$500M in aid procurement over 2 years
WFP has used Türkiye as a base to distribute food aid to some of the world’s most vulnerable regions, including Ukraine, Libya, Gaza, and Syria. Between 2022 and 2023, WFP procured $500 million worth of food and services from Türkiye, with supplies transported from ports in Tekirdag, Izmir, Mersin and Hatay.
To enhance emergency response capacity and streamline aid logistics, WFP is now seeking to expand its physical presence in Türkiye by establishing its own storage facilities.
UNHCR commissioner highlights Türkiye’s refugee support
The U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, also visited Türkiye and acknowledged the country’s role in managing the return process of Syrian refugees.
“I was informed that since December 8, around 8,000 Syrians have returned. Refugees should take advantage of Türkiye’s offer and visit their homeland,” Grandi stated.
WFP coordinates thousands of aid deliveries daily
WFP’s global humanitarian efforts include the daily coordination of an extensive logistics network:
- 6,500 trucks
- 140 aircraft
- 20 ships
- 850 storage facilities
This network ensures aid reaches some of the hardest-hit regions suffering from food insecurity.
Bakeries in Gaza reopen with WFP assistance
Following a temporary cease-fire, bakeries in Gaza have resumed operations with WFP’s support. The organization has successfully established a steady flow of humanitarian aid to the region.
Skau noted that the cease-fire has created an opportunity for safer aid distribution and improved access to those in need.
“Bakeries are operational again, and we are delivering meals to displaced people in shelters,” he said.
