In contrast to the global trend where only 1.2 per cent of international humanitarian aid funds are channeled directly to local and national responders, the IFRC-DREF allocates 82 per cent of its resources directly to National Societies. By allocating funds directly to National Societies rooted in local communities, the IFRC-DREF capitalizes on their extensive knowledge of local conditions.

IFRC-DREF requests can be approved within 24 hours, disbursed in less than 72 hours and it is open to all 191 National Societies that submit funding applications and plans of action reflecting locally identified priorities and needs. 

To see the latest IFRC-DREF allocations and updates: 

• Subscribe to IFRC-DREF newsletter
• Follow @IFRC_DREF on Twitter
• Visit our emergency operations data platform, IFRC GO

Initially disbursing 22.5 Swiss Francs million per year in grants and loans by 2010, the fund experienced substantial growth. In 2023, it disbursed over 74 million Swiss Francs to support 90 National Societies, targeting more than 14.6 million people across the globe. Looking ahead, our goal is to annually allocate CHF 100 million to National Societies by 2025. 

If you are interested in becoming a donor for IFRC-DREF, please contact Ivana Mrdja, manager, Public Sector Partnerships, Strategic Partnerships and Resource Mobilisation Department ([email protected]).

In 2022, the establishment of the IFRC-DREF Council further enhanced the fund's governance. This independent advisory body, composed of high-level representatives from major donor governments, their corresponding National Societies, and selected experts, is dedicated to offering strategic insight and advice on the fund's management and performance. Learn more about IFRC-DREF council here.

Response Pillar: IFRC -DREF not only addresses small and medium-scale disasters but also acts as a critical bridge by providing initial, contingency funding for immediate response efforts. This essential role helps ensure timely aid until further resources are raised through emergency appeals. 

Anticipatory Pillar: By also funding anticipatory action, IFRC-DREF, aims to save more lives and livelihoods, minimize impact, and alleviate suffering by acting before hazards strike. This is facilitated by a mechanism where financial resources are pre-agreed and released automatically once a predetermined trigger is reached, ensuring timely and effective early action. IFRC aims to allocate 25 per cent of IFRC-DREF funding by 2025 to the Anticipatory Pillar. 

In 2023, CHF 9.1 million (12 per cent of the fund) was allocated through the Anticipatory Pillar.

We have developed IFRC-DREF guidelines for National Societies, as well as an introduction to IFRC-DREF eLearning course available in English, French, Arabic and Spanish.

We are also developing a range of practical IFRC-DREF tools and resources to promote a culture of operational learning across our global network. If you are from a National Society and would like to access these resources, please contact Marco Vargas (Delegate, IFRC-DREF Capacity Strengthening).

IFRC-DREF Newsletter 

Subscribe to receive our monthly overview and/or to get an email notification every time an allocation is made. Choose one or both options to stay informed. 

Stay updated with the latest information on our IFRC-DREF X account. When creating your posts, use #DREFinAction and tag @IFRC_DREF to join the conversation.

Check out our 'IFRC-DREF in Action' audio clips! Tune in to hear updates on our activities and listen to stories from the field, showcasing the impact and reach of our efforts.