The event, held virtually under the theme “A Fund for All by All” was hosted by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid, today took part in the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) High-level Pledging Event for the year 2020. The event, held virtually under the theme “A Fund for All by All” was hosted by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). This year’s event highlighted the annual achievements of the Fund and opened the floor to all Member States to announce their pledges to the Fund for the year 2021.
Speaking at the event, Minister Shahid noted that the contemporary challenges accompanying the COVID-19 pandemic have left the world dependent on the lifesaving and critical work of CERF. In this regard, he observed the vital role played by the Fund’s swift and targeted disbursement of assistance in the advancement of the global response to the pandemic. He further emphasised that the CERF’s Rapid Response and anticipatory actions in response to COVID-19 as well to natural disasters and other emergencies, contributed substantially to the mitigation of the humanitarian impact of these events.
Minister Shahid proceeded to appreciate the continued efforts of CERF to disburse aid to the most vulnerable populations, whilst prioritising women and girls and persons with disabilities. He then acknowledged the importance of providing these funds through UN agencies to enable the allocation of resources to the areas of greatest need with the required expertise.
Minister Shahid concluded his remarks by recognising the inclusive nature of CERF, as a fund embodying the spirit of multilateralism and embracing collective action to respond quickly and effectively to urgent humanitarian crises worldwide.
CERF was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005 to promote fast and effective global humanitarian aid. Since its inception in 2006, the Fund has delivered over $ 5.5 billion worth lifesaving assistance to over 100 countries through its humanitarian partners.
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