Since 2015, when the first wave of refugees and migrants reached the countries along the Mediterranean Sea, the region is still facing challenges. The number of people on the eastern Mediterranean route heading to Europe across the Western Balkans has doubled since 2017 and is still increasing.

The countries that migrants and refugees cross on their way to Europe or where they seek protection require support to meet the humanitarian needs effectively, as they often lack adequate capacities. According to the latest data published by international organisations, over 70,000 people, including many children, have sought protection in Western Balkan countries and Greece. They live in harsh conditions, frequently without basic provisions such as food and clothing, they are housed in facilities with poor hygiene and sanitation or camps, and they have no educational or employment opportunities.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has launched an appeal to raise CHF 3.3 million to meet the urgent needs of migrants.

By providing a humanitarian contribution of EUR 40,000, Slovenia will help the IFRC ensure adequate care for migrants, and thus increase its humanitarian funds for this area. In 2018, Slovenia allocated EUR 30,000 through the UNHCR for refugees and migrants on the Western Balkan route.