Following the current situation on the continuous global spread of the Coronavirus, CARE International Balkans prioritizes and underlines the importance of cooperation among staff and the respective governments in the Western Balkans.
We are closely monitoring the situation in all countries and communities where we work trying to ensure safety and security of CARE staff, programs, partner organisations and beneficiaries. As such, CARE stands firm in the fight against the virus and calls for respecting the preventive and precautionary measures taken by the respective governments.
YMI key project activities include working with youth in communities and educational institutions across the region. In this current moment all YMI components are undergoing contingency planning and mitigating to position CARE and partners to rapidly respond and adapt to the current circumstances. Most importantly, all organizations gathered around Young Men Initiative prioritise the wellbeing of all stakeholders and beneficiaries involved and we intend to work together to meet the needs as this crisis unfolds.
- Implementation of all YMI related field activities in communities and schools across the region will be postponed until further notice.
- We will maintain continuous communication with beneficiaries in order to coordinate further steps based on the latest decisions of governments and health institutions.
- We will work on finding creative and alternative solutions and adapt the activities by using online platforms based on our knowledge and inputs from beneficiaries.
We would like to use this opportunity to remind you that some of the common symptoms that may appear 2-14 days after exposure include fever, a dry cough, fatigue, and difficulty breathing. Based on the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, staying at home, minimizing the contact and maintaining high levels of hygiene will decrease the risks of infection – thus it is important that we all work together in the times of crisis.
For more information on the latest developments, we recommend following the dedicated WHO’s webpage but also measures being put in place by the national authorities.
Click here to read more about Covid-19 Myth busters
The Young Men Initiative will come up with new ways to promote and work on our mission in the region. It is up to each of us to act responsibly.
In the meantime, stay safe!
CARE International, Balkans