Paper details

Paper authors	Einav Levy
In panel on	Migration, Protracted Crisis and Humanitarianism
Paper presenter(s) will be presenting	In-Person / Online

Abstract

The massive and continuous migration movement into Europe during 2015-2016, was addressed by the countries along the Balkans, with limited resources and a limited infrastructure. These limitations were resulted in crowded buses, trains and residing in dense camps. All of the above were eventually negatively affecting hygiene, health conditions and mental health of the migrants.
Preshevo registration camp, located in southern Serbia, was constructed by the Serbian government and the UNHCR on the main route used by the migrants. The camp functioned as a registration and transition camp in order to facilitate fast procedures for the migrants. The camp included further services such as NFIs distribution, food, and medical support. These services were provided in accordance with the protection policy, by the Serbian government and by various NGOs- locals and internationals. NATAN, an Israeli NGO in collaboration with HUMEDICA, a German organization, established a clinic in the camp. The clinic was staffed by Israeli and German personnel, who provided medical and psychosocial support.
Data from over 2,000 patients entered the clinic was collected. The main variables were gender, age, origin, treatment and diagnose. Cultural barriers, lack of resources and gender-related issues amplified the vulnerability of the migrants, resulted in limited treatment. These challenges could partially be addressed more carefully through procedures, policy change and pro-active approach of the staff.

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