It’s been three weeks since southern Turkey and northwest Syria were devastated by earthquakes, starting on 6 February. More than 50,000 people have died, 70,000 are injured and at least 160,000 buildings have totally or partially collapsed.

United Nations organizations and other aid agencies have joined thousands of volunteers in both countries. The World Food Programme is delivering millions of hot meals. The World Health Organization (WHO) is supplying hospitals with painkillers and antibiotics. The World Bank has pledged nearly US$1.8 billion for recovery and reconstruction, and UN secretary-general António Guterres is appealing for $1 billion for Turkey and close to $400 million for Syria, to be distributed to organizations providing food, shelter and education. Separately, the Red Cross/Red Crescent has launched an appeal to raise around $700 million.