Rising from the Rubble Vol IV: Resilience, Hope, and the Power of Local NGOs
The fourth and last story from the panel on "Rising from the Rubble" series.
On February 6, Turkey was struck by two devastating earthquakes that claimed tens of thousands of lives and left over two million people displaced. In the aftermath of this tragedy, civil society organizations, artists, volunteers and activists have played a critical role in the coordination of relief efforts and the mobilization of resources to support those affected.
Over the course of the webinar, the speakers shared their personal experiences. In this piece, Mert Uğur Aksoy, NGO consultant at STK Master, resource management specialist at Lokman Hekim Health Foundation, and a volunteer at Afet Platformu (Disaster Platform) shares his poignant experiences from the ground. His speech shed light on the hope and immense efforts carried out by civil society organizations in Hatay, illustrating the power of coordination, volunteerism, and the crucial role of supporting local NGOs.
This article delves into Aksoy's insightful account, showcasing the resilience of the citizens of Hatay and the collective strength of those who rallied together to provide relief and aid.
Aksoy commenced his speech by addressing the challenges faced in the immediate aftermath of the earthquake. Hatay, a province reeling from the impact of the disaster, had limited information available due to the widespread destruction and communication difficulties. Recognizing the urgency, Lokman Hekim Health Foundation and the Disaster Platform, in collaboration with other organizations, swiftly launched research, rescue, and relief operations on February 7, just a day after the earthquake. Aksoy actively participated, providing vital first aid, conducting research, and aiding in rescue efforts. “It is crucial to support local NGOs in the earthquake region in the short and medium-term,” stressed Aksoy in his talk. “Therefore, it is essential to think about how you can help civil society organizations.”
Amid the overwhelming chaos in Hatay, Aksoy and his team encountered individuals emerging from the debris seeking assistance. Realizing the urgent need for organization and support, they quickly established a system to manage the influx of people at the Hatay Expo building. This central location became a hub for ongoing relief activities. Aksoy emphasized that the immediate response within the first 72 hours was crucial, but the subsequent 15 days played an equally vital role in saving lives and providing essential services.
Amid the overwhelming chaos in Hatay, Aksoy and his team encountered individuals emerging from the debris seeking assistance. Realizing the urgent need for organization and support, they quickly established a system to manage the influx of people at the Hatay Expo building. This central location became a hub for ongoing relief activities. Aksoy emphasized that the immediate response within the first 72 hours was crucial, but the subsequent 15 days played an equally vital role in saving lives and providing essential services.
Understanding the significance of maintaining healthcare services, particularly in the face of a disaster, Aksoy's team focused on identifying and addressing the needs of medical professionals and healthcare facilities. They conducted comprehensive research to determine the number of doctors and healthcare providers affected, as well as the status of collapsed hospital buildings. To bridge the gap, the team sent containers filled with necessary supplies and established makeshift clinics to ensure healthcare services continued in the midst of the crisis. This initiative showcased the resilience and adaptability of the medical community.
“Pay attention to NGO activities, support their social media accounts, make donations, and provide grants.”
Aksoy's team's research also revealed the emergence of a widespread epidemic, primarily mange, caused by unsanitary conditions and fly infestations. Despite the passage of three months, the epidemic persisted. Consequently, continuous efforts were directed toward sending health assets and educating the affected population on preventive measures. Moreover, research findings unveiled the release of poisonous gases from damaged buildings, leading to high air pollution. In response, Aksoy's team focused on distributing masks to protect people from potential health problems.
The Lokman Hekim Health Foundation extended support to medical students through scholarships and practical experience opportunities. In collaboration with the students, the foundation organized an operation where future doctors were dispatched to the field, distributing health sets and providing essential medical care. Aksoy highlighted the pivotal role played by volunteers in coordinating relief efforts. He emphasized the importance of motivation among volunteers and shared an inspiring story of an artist among their team who drew pictures on boxes to uplift children's spirits. The positive impact on earthquake victims, expressed through heartfelt letters from the children, served as a powerful reminder of the importance of volunteer work.
Aksoy underscored the significant role local NGOs play in the short and medium-term recovery process. He urged the audience to support these organizations by paying attention to their activities, following their social media accounts, making donations, and providing grants. Highlighting the healing power of NGOs, especially in terms of healthcare and community support, he emphasized the need to extend continuous aid and solidarity to the earthquake-stricken region.
Mert Uğur Aksoy's firsthand account of the Hatay earthquake response showcased the resilience, dedication, and hope demonstrated by civil society organizations, volunteers, and medical professionals. Through coordination, adaptability, and unwavering determination, these individuals and organizations made a substantial impact on the lives of those affected by the disaster. Aksoy's call to support local NGOs serves as a reminder that sustained efforts and solidarity are vital for long-term recovery and rebuilding processes. By sharing these stories of hope and resilience, we honor the spirit of those who rose from the rubble and continue to inspire us all.