Yahoo Lifestyle Angelina Jolie Urges World Leaders To Do More For Refugees
Angelina Jolie in Iraq. Photo: Getty Images.
Angelina Jolie says the world is failing millions of people displaced as a result of conflict in regions such as Syria and Iraq.
The actress, who is in Iraq for the fifth time as a special UNHCR ambassador, told media she was "shocked" at the current state of the country.
"It is shocking to see how the humanitarian situation in Iraq has deteriorated since my last visit," Jolie said. "We are being tested here as an international community and so far, for all the immense efforts and good intentions, the international community is failing."
The actress added that too many innocent people are now paying the price for the spread of extremism.
"It is not enough to defend our values at home," said Jolie. "We have to defend them here, in the camps and in the informal settlements across the Middle East, and in the ruined towns of Iraq and Syria."
On her visit, Jolie met with several mothers whose children had been kidnapped by ISIL, saying she couldn't imagine a greater horror.
"They are overwhelmed by thoughts of what is happening to their children," Jolie said. "Nothing can prepare you for the horrific stories of these survivors of kidnap, abuse and exploitation and to see how they cannot all get the urgent help they need and deserve."
The actress urged leaders worldwide to pledge more funds to the humanitarian crisis.
RELATED:
The Queen makes Angelina Jolie an honorary Dame
