[Satnews] Globalstar, Inc. (NYSE MKT:GSAT) and the company's partner, first responder communications specialist Disaster Tech Lab, are working together to assist the victims of the European and Middle East refugee crisis by dispatching satellite communications solutions to the Greek island of Lesbos, which has received more than 20,000 refugees fleeing Syria, Iraq and other nations, all in the last month.
Refugee uses Globalstar satellite phone to call loved one.
Photo is courtesy of Globalstar.
Globalstar products and services are also helping to keep the humanitarian aid specialists from Disaster Tech Lab connected and safe as they travel to and between deployment locations. Disaster Tech Lab is currently deploying teams of volunteers to refugee camps and arrival sites. Many of these regions have very poor infrastructure, often with no electricity or alternative communications networks.The remote areas of Lesbos where Disaster Tech Lab works have virtually non-existent cellular coverage and a severe lack of terrestrial telecom infrastructure. Satellite networks provide the only reliable operable communications available.
Executive Comments
Evert Bopp, Founder of Disaster Tech Lab, said, "Globalstar satellite phones are the only way many of these refugees can make a quick call to family back home, letting them know they have arrived safely. We have seen people forgo medical treatment for the opportunity to use a satellite phone; these communications are really helping people in the most desperate need. Not only are affected individuals benefiting from Globalstar technology, but we have also helped other NGOs by providing reliable satellite communications from Globalstar. Both the satellite phones and SPOT trackers have improved our operational efficiency and coordination efforts. For example, just recently, we loaned the satellite phones to other relief organizations in Lesbos to call for additional medical aid and direct resources and manpower to the right locations on short notice."
"Globalstar has proven essential in the aftermath of U.S. disasters like Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, and we are thrilled to be working with Disaster Tech Lab to extend the reach of our international solutions, " said Jay Monroe, Chairman and CEO, Globalstar. "The refugee crisis is widespread and we will continue to look for opportunities to assist both the victims and relief agencies."
