UNICEF Shines Light on the Worst Humanitarian Crisis Since World War II

A powerful new film, presenting the stories of a young Syrian refugee and a World War II child refugee was released last week by UNICEF as an illustration of the challenges that refugee children continue to face.

The film, created by 180 Amsterdam, draws stark parallels between the experiences of Harry, a World War II child refugee and Ahmed, a young boy displaced by the conflict in Syria, highlighting the gravity of the refugee crisis facing the world today.

Urging viewers to support Syria’s refugee children, the film is part of UNICEF’s For Every Child campaign, a commitment to promoting the rights and improving the lives of the world’s most vulnerable children. 

Incorporating contemporary footage of Syrian refugee struggles, as well as historical footage from World War II, the online film launches globally across UNICEF’s YouTube page and social channels.

Paloma Escudero, UNICEF Director of Communications, said: “The needs of refugees have never been greater. Now, more than ever, they need our support. We hope that this video will serve as a reminder that behind the headlines are the stories of individual children. Not refugees, not migrants, but children, whose only hope is for safety, and the chance of a brighter future””

Al Moseley, President & CCO, 180 Amsterdam, commented: "It has been over seventy years since we have seen a humanitarian crisis of this magnitude. While some would rather ignore it we believe it should be top of the agenda and treated with the compassion, empathy and humanity it deserves. 180 is proud, once again, to partner with UNICEF to bring this story to the world.”

The shared story of Harry and Ahmed work is part of 180’s ongoing relationship with UNICEF, following on from the critically acclaimed Unfairy Tales, from 180 LA, which won the Grand Prix for Good at the 2016 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.