In the wake of the devastating cyclone Chido in Mayotte, the island is now facing a fierce struggle for the survival of survivors. Three days after the disaster, the situation is extremely urgent. Residents are struggling to find drinking water, food and electricity as living conditions deteriorate rapidly. The State has mobilized the army to try to provide crucial assistance, but the urgency is palpable.
Local media are warning of the seriousness of the situation in Mayotte, now in the grip of a real race against time to avoid a health tragedy. The department, considered the poorest in France, is in tatters, and counting the victims remains an arduous task, with an official population of 320,000 inhabitants and thousands of illegal immigrants living in extreme conditions. The scale of the damage is immense, as evidenced by the distress of the inhabitants who are trying to rebuild their already precarious lives.
Meanwhile in Syria, another equally crucial fight is looming: that of hope. Syrians, worn down by years of devastating conflict, are eagerly awaiting support from the international community. The country’s new leader, Ahmed Al-Sharaa, is raising hopes with his down-to-earth approach and commitment to national unity. However, the threat of a resurgence of the Islamic State group looms large, reminding us of the persistent dangers in the region and the need to remain vigilant against jihadist threats.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International’s recent revelations about Serbia’s use of spyware raise concerns about the surveillance of activists and journalists. This violation of privacy and freedom of expression highlights the challenges facing those fighting for truth and justice.
In these turbulent and challenging times, the world is at a critical juncture. Solidarity, action and responsibility are essential pillars to overcome crises and build a fairer and safer future for all. Mayotte, Syria, Serbia – these are all places where battles for life and freedom are being played out. There is an urgent need to act, to support and protect those who need it most, because together we can build a better world.