From UN Refugee Agency intro: More than 1 million Syrians have been forced to leave their country to neighboring Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq or other countries in the region.
By contrast, people seeking sanctuary from the conflict in Syria, according to UN Refugee Agency, must typically conceal their intentions by appearing as though they are out for a family stroll or a Sunday drive as they make their way towards a border. Thus they carry little more than keys, pieces of paper, phones and bracelets – things that can be worn or concealed in pockets. Some Syrians bring a symbol of their religious faith, others clutch a reminder of home or of happier times.
Iman*, 25, poses for a portrait with her son Ahmed, 2, and daughter Aishia, 1, in Nizip refugee camp, Turkey, on 4 December 2012. They arrived in Nizip ten weeks before this photograph was taken, after fleeing their home in Aleppo. After weathering months of conflict, Iman decided it was time to flee when she heard accounts of sexual harassment against women in Aleppo. Iman lost five family members, and the home where they were taking shelter was destroyed in a ferocious attack. The most important thing Iman was able to bring with her is the Koran she holds in this photograph. She says that religion is the most important aspect of her life, and that the Koran inspires a sense of protection.