In response to the devastating effects of the recent cold wave in Afghanistan, the European Union (EU) has stepped in to provide crucial assistance to affected families, EEAS reported. The EU has allocated €150,000 to deliver emergency humanitarian aid to those hardest hit by the extreme weather conditions that struck the country in early March.
Through collaboration with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the EU's funding aims to reach approximately 11,200 individuals across severely affected provinces such as Badghis and Kunduz. The assistance package includes the provision of warm clothing, footwear, multipurpose cash grants to help meet daily basic needs, and hygiene kits tailored for women and girls, comprising essential items such as menstrual pads, soap, and toothbrushes.
This financial support forms part of the EU's broader commitment to the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) of the IFRC, which enables rapid responses to emergencies worldwide. The recent allocation underscores the EU's dedication to assisting vulnerable communities during times of crisis.
The cold wave in Afghanistan has left a trail of devastation, with at least 70 fatalities and over 14,000 individuals affected in high-altitude regions. Record-low temperatures, plunging to as low as minus 33 degrees Celsius, have led to the loss of over 70,000 livestock, exacerbating economic hardship for affected households. Additionally, nearly 1,500 homes have been damaged, while main traffic arteries have been blocked by snowfall, hampering access to essential goods and services.
In light of these challenges, the EU's support plays a vital role in alleviating the suffering of those impacted by the cold wave. By working in collaboration with organizations like the IFRC, the EU aims to provide timely and effective assistance to vulnerable populations, thereby upholding principles of solidarity and humanitarianism.
EU's Humanitarian Efforts
The European Union, along with its member states, stands as a global leader in humanitarian aid, providing relief to millions of individuals affected by natural disasters and conflicts annually. Through its Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations department, the EU works tirelessly to save lives, alleviate suffering, and uphold human dignity in crisis-affected regions.
The EU's partnership amounting to €8mn with the IFRC is instrumental in facilitating rapid responses to emergencies through mechanisms such as the Disaster Response Emergency Fund. Established in 1979, the DREF enables swift financial support for small-scale disasters, allowing National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to address immediate needs in affected communities.
By committing to replenish the DREF, the EU ensures the availability of resources for emergency responses, thereby bolstering global efforts to mitigate the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations. Through such initiatives, the EU reaffirms its dedication to promoting resilience, solidarity, and humanitarian values in the face of adversity.
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