More than 125 million people in the world need humanitarian assistance. Aid organizations aim to support about 87.6 million of the most vulnerable in 2016. But will they receive enough money?
This year, only about half of the money needed to cover the humanitarian appeals for 2015, has been provided – leading to a record funding gap of 10.2 billion dollars, as we approach the end of the year.
“This year, the international community has failed people in need. The devastating consequences have been visible at Europe´s doorstep – where desperate people have tried to seek protection and assistance”, said Egeland.
“To double the financial support is ambitious, but perfectly doable. What is needed is about the same amount of money as the cost of arranging an Olympic Game or a World Cup”, he added
Egeland also stressed the need for investing in jobs and education for Syrian refugees, who are losing hope for the future. The Syria crisis is the largest in our generation. The war has forced more than 4.2 million people to flee to neighbouring countries and an additional 6.5 million people are displaced within the country.
“Syrian refugees across the Middle East are finding it harder than ever to cope. With extremely limited opportunities to make a living, they are faced with two bleak choices: either go back to the war zone they fled from, or take the often lethal journey to Europe. We need to be ambitious about offering a bold new deal for Syria's refugees and host governments in the region that would generate jobs and help protect the most vulnerable people, beyond the immediate humanitarian needs”, said Egeland.
Lack of funding has resulted in cuts in food assistance for Syrian refugees and left many children without education opportunities.
“In addition to providing the necessary financial support, countries with influence need to push for political solutions. Escalating military intervention or transferring weapons is only adding to the displacement and overall humanitarian crisis,” Egeland ended.
Press contacts:
Tuva R. Bogsnes, Head of Communications:+ 47 93 23 18 83
Tiril Skarstein, Media Adviser: + 47 90 56 92 87