The White Helmets

Syria Civil Defence is a group of first responders and rescue workers. Known as the White Helmets these unarmed volunteers rush in after barrel bombs rain down to search for life in the rubble. Their work was the subject of the Oscar-winning Netflix documentary short The White Helmets.

The group has saved nearly 100,000 lives—at great risk. According to The Economist one in six volunteers have been killed or badly wounded, many by “double-tap” airstrikes on the same site. In addition to rescue work, the White Helmets provide public services such as reconnecting electrical and water services, clearing roads and teaching children about undetonated ordnace. They are the largest civil society organization operating in areas outside government control.

Panel discussion with head of the White Helmets Raed Al Saleh and cameraman Khaled Khatib. Clips from the documentary will be screened.