Long-term funding approach at Madrid conference key to getting Iraq’s recovery right, says Red Cross Red Crescent
23 October 2003

Huge funds provided on a short-term basis at a donor conference on Iraq starting today in Madrid will not be the solution to the reconstruction of Iraq, warns the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

“We see this conference as important to meet immediate needs, but are deeply conscious that it will take many years for Iraq to recover from the scars of recent years and this conflict. We appeal to all donors to consider the long-term needs of the Iraqi people as the last thing that is needed is a large payment to a country that cannot currently absorb the generosity, followed by insufficient support later,” said Juan Manuel Suárez del Toro, president of the International Federation in a statement for the conference.

“Unfortunately, experience shows us that is a common pattern, and we must make sure we do not repeat it now,” he added.

Recent studies, including by the World Bank, have shown that post-conflict countries are unable to absorb very large sums of money early on as there is no institutional capacity. They have also highlighted the need for a longer-term view when developing the early plans for reconstruction.

For further information, or to set up interviews, please contact:

In Madrid:
Milagros Mateos Herrera, Director of Communications, Spanish Red Cross - Tel: + 34 607 88 09 17
Miguel Ángel Rodríguez García, Information Officer - Tel: + 34 610 29 68 49

In Geneva:
Denis McClean, Head, Media Service - Tel: + 41 22 730 44 28 / + 41 79 217 33 57
Media Service duty phone - Tel: + 41 79 416 38 81

The Geneva-based International Federation promotes the humanitarian activities of 181 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies among vulnerable people. By coordinating international disaster relief and encouraging development support, it seeks to prevent and alleviate human suffering. The Federation, National Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross together, constitute the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.