See this article in the Wash. Post about some of the differences in private sector response to the conflict emergency as contrasted with a natural disaster: Earthquake? Silicon Valley Will Help. Refugee Crisis? Not so much.

On a personal note. I would like to mention a personal and positive example of help.  I received an email from a researcher at a Berlin University, asking for some help with experts regarding supply chains for food.  Not having that expertise, I contacted 5 friends who do.  All answered me immediately and offered to be of help to the German researchers. Small sample, but I think the research community in the field of emergency management consists of terrific people!

Note: The Diva just added a page to this blog on Refugees.