HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE FOR WAR REFUGEES FROM UKRAINE: A CASE STUDY OF THE PODKARPACKI BRANCH OF THE POLISH RED CROSS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54658/ps.28153324.2024.9.3.pp.36-52Abstract
The phenomenon of refugees has been a consistent feature of human history for centuries, and in the era of globalization and widespread armed conflicts, it has gained increasing significance. This article examines the definition and status of refugees in the context of international law, with particular emphasis on the 1951 Geneva Convention and relevant domestic regulations. The role of non-governmental organizations (including the Polish Red Cross) and state structures in the refugee assistance process was also presented. The article presents an example of the actions taken by the Podkarpacki Branch of PCK in response to the influx of refugees from war-torn Ukraine in 2022. The authors examine the significance of international cooperation and a multi-level legal framework in safeguarding the basic rights and security of individuals forced to flee their homeland. Finally, the article presents conclusions regarding the necessity of long-term integration programs and sustainable humanitarian efforts.
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