French authorities destroy refugees’ church and mosque

French authorities clearing an area in the Calais refugee camp

French authorities clearing an area in the Calais refugee camp, home to nearly 6,000 people, destroyed a makeshift mosque and church.

Help Refugees, a charity that raises funds for refugees and supports volunteer organizations on the ground in Calais, said the Calais sub-prefect had met with representatives from the camp on January 11^th and promised that the church, mosque and a school would not be included in the area marked for demolition.

The French authorities have faced increased criticism for failing to provide adequate facilities in the camp, including schools, hospitals and places of worship.