Refugee Crisis in Northern France: A Volunteer's Perspective

An introduction

The refugee crisis in Northern France continues to be a pressing humanitarian issue. Over several weeks, I volunteered at the Refugee Women's Centre, assisting displaced people living in harsh conditions. This article sheds light on my personal experiences, systemic challenges, and the critical need for policy changes.

Fieldwork and Challenges

Initial Days: Adapting to the Crisis

November 13th-14th, 2024

• Attended team meetings and field briefings at La Mer.
• Learned about key issues: winter hardships, lack of shelter, and scarce resources.
• Joined Utopia 56 in transporting refugees to gathering spots.
• The government denied shelter requests, forcing NGOs to distribute tents or find temporary hotel accommodations.

Warehouse and Shelter Coordination

November 15th-16th

• Training sessions on field procedures and safety protocols.
• Worked in the warehouse: sorted donations, categorized clothing, and prepared orders for distribution.
• Conducted field assessments in Calais to determine family needs and shelter availability.

Investigating Shelter Availability

November 18th-20th

• Assisted in tracking families and calling 115 for emergency shelter.
• Faced frequent rejections from the system, NGOs resorted to hotel accommodations for vulnerable families.
• Encountered security threats, including a masked man near a campsite, highlighting the risks faced by displaced individuals.

On-the-Ground Support

November 21st-30th

• Assisted newly arrived refugees in Calais and GS shifts.
• Encountered police presence, which restricted humanitarian efforts.
• Mental fatigue began to set in; self-care breaks were necessary.

Shower Shifts and Emergency Support

December 3rd-7th

• Established makeshift shower stations for refugees in need.
• Noted an increase in individuals requiring essential hygiene supplies.
• Assisted displaced families with securing temporary accommodations.

Protests and Confrontations

December 15th

• An unexpected protest turned into a confrontation with police, leading to detainment.
• Officials repeatedly denied shelter applications, leaving many without basic necessities.
• Families were forced to return to makeshift camps despite freezing conditions.

Humanitarian Interventions and Advocacy

December 19th - January 3rd

• Coordinated emergency shelter arrangements for sick and vulnerable individuals.
• Witnessed severe disparities in the treatment of refugees, particularly families from Eritrea.
• Assisted families attempting to cross to the UK, providing clothing and essential supplies.

Human Rights Violations in Calais

Calais, situated on the French border, is heavily influenced by UK immigration policies. The lack of proper accommodations, systemic neglect, and governmental resistance violates basic human rights, despite both France and the UK being signatories to international human rights agreements (ICCPR, ICESCR). Key concerns include:

• Right to Housing: Shelters are severely limited, leaving many on the streets in freezing temperatures.
• Right to Food: Access to consistent food sources remains a challenge.
• Right to Life and Security: Harsh living conditions increase the risk of illness and mortality.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

The experience of working with refugees in Northern France exposed me to the ongoing humanitarian crisis and systemic failures. The continued rejection of shelter requests, the inadequate response to winter conditions, and the disregard for human dignity highlight the need for urgent policy reforms. Despite these challenges, the resilience of displaced individuals and the dedication of volunteers provide a glimpse of hope.

While my time in the field has ended, my advocacy for refugee rights continues. Upholding fundamental human rights and ensuring everyone receives shelter and support during times of need demands immediate action.