By the Associated Press
The European Union says a "solidarity conference" has raised around 120 million euros ($133 million) for Venezuelans fleeing their crisis-wracked country, and to help countries who are hosting them.
European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini addresses the audience during a high level conference about Venezuela migration crisis, in Brussels, Monday, Oct. 28, 2019. Hundreds of representatives from governments, international agencies and charity groups gathered in Brussels Monday for a "solidarity conference" to drum up support millions of Venezuelans who have fled the political crisis and to help neighboring countries that are taking them in. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco/MANILA BULLETIN)
Around 4.5 million people have fled Venezuela in recent years to escape low wages, failing basic services and a lack of security. If departures continue at the same rate, the numbers will soon surpass the 5.6 million who've left war-torn Syria since 2011.
Most are being hosted in neighboring countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Announcing the new funds Tuesday, EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the 120 million-euro effort "is quite remarkable" given that the two-day meeting in Brussels is not a donors' conference.