Escapism magazine, which is distributed to commuters in central London, usually tells readers where they can enjoy exotic holiday destinations, the world’s best beaches and the coolest hotels.
But the latest issue of the travel magazine is very different indeed. All 84 pages are dedicated to explaining the refugee crisis. And, in what must rank as a first for a giveaway title, it is entirely free from adverts.
It highlights the various refugee crises across the world through a series of graphics, carries features written by refugees about their experiences, and there is a moving report from the Greek island of Lesbos where so many of the refugees from Syria and Afghanistan are currently living in camps.
Escapism’s associate editor, Hannah Summers, says: “For our readers, escapism has been a way to get away with family and friends, to relax on holiday. But, for many, it takes on a much more literal meaning – an escape from poverty and war.”
In the magazine, Summers writes: “When I became a travel writer I never expected to cover an issue like this, but I’m grateful for an opportunity that has opened my eyes to an unjust and painful reality that’s also full of courage, humanity and, ultimately, hope.
“This crisis affects us all, and we all have a part to play in how it unfolds. There are many ways you can get involved, but the most important thing is that you do get involved. Please, take action today.”
A final page calls on readers to join “a kind and big-hearted group of volunteers” to help the refugees in the camp in Calais.
For those who do not journey into the central zones of the London tube, much of the magazine’s content can be accessed on the magazine’s website.
