On Friday. the WHO held a conference in Turkey to discuss health issues related to migrants and refugees.

The Turkish deputy Health Minister alongside the WHO regional director for the EU, Africa and the Middle East participated in the conference.

Representatives of refugee/migrant groups and partner organizations were among the attendees.

As a result of the Russia-Ukraine war,  over three million people have escaped, with WHO and associates endeavoring to support pressing health needs both within Ukraine and neighboring countries that are welcoming the refugees.

“Regardless of the myriad factors that propel migration, it is not a modern or distinct phenomenon, but an enduring, enriching and vital part of our societies, an essential ingredient in how we – as communities and people – thrive and develop. Together with refugees and migrants, we need to renew our public health approach, to realize that we are all better off when all of us – regardless of status – have access to health,” said Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.“

The health issues of refugees and migrants are ever more documented as a worldwide concern.

“Since the late 2000s, large numbers of refugees and migrants have arrived into the European Region; this will likely continue in the coming years.” WHO said.

“Globally, an estimated 281 million people live outside their country of origin, which is more than 1 in 30 people.” the WHO added.

Europe hosts almost thirty-six percent of the overall worldwide migrant population.

Aljazeera/WHO.