Panama City / Ottawa / Geneva, 15 June 2021 – To respond to the unmet needs of Venezuelan migrants, including refugees, living in Latin America and the Caribbean, the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement is strengthening its response to provide protection and assistance to Venezuelans and host communities in 17 American countries over 36 months. The new migration programmes – totaling 236 million CHF ($264 million) – will address short-, medium- and long-term needs and support vulnerable Venezuelan migrants, including refugees, to access healthcare, psychosocial support, income opportunities, protection services and foster social inclusion into host communities. Since 2018, more than 5 million Venezuelans have left their country. Many of them are still not meeting their basic needs. The current pandemic and COVID-19-related lockdowns and border closures have further deteriorated an already precarious situation for many migrants, including refugees, who have lost income opportunities, faced increased discrimination, and encountered endless obstacles that prevented them from accessing basic services and protection. Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), said: “Today, the basic needs of vulnerable Venezuelan refugees and migrants remain unmet. Many of them are still unable to access food, water and sanitation, housing, and first aid. In addition, they are now facing significant challenges in accessing healthcare, including COVID-19 vaccinations, psychosocial support, and formal or informal jobs. “Ahead of the International Donors' Conference in Solidarity with Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants, which will take place later this week, we call on governments, donors, international organizations and civil society to step up efforts to ensure that no refugee or migrant is left behind. Action is needed now.” The situation is particularly severe for vulnerable groups, such as migrants, including refugees, without a recognized regular status, those transiting in areas affected by armed conflict or held in immigration detention, as well as women, children, elderly people, the LGBTIQ community and people living with disabilities, who are exposed to violence, social and cultural barriers, economic exclusion, and xenophobia. In response to the massive population movement of Venezuelans across borders, more than 6,900 Red Cross volunteers and staff have been mobilized in the Americas since 2017 and will continue to work in coordination with local, national and international stakeholders, as well as with refugees and migrants themselves, to ensure that everyone is safe and treated with dignity. The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Peter Maurer, said: “No one should be left unprotected and alone when in need of help. Migration policies must always be guided by humanity and dignity, and in line with international obligations. “Countless numbers of people go missing along the migration path, creating enormous distress for families who are left waiting for answers. States should take all feasible measures to prevent family separation and the risk of migrants going missing or dying. And finally - detention is not a solution to migration challenges. Detention for immigration-related reasons is a last resort. Children should never be detained.” The Americas migration programmes still require funding and will also address environmental sustainability and climate change adaptation and mitigation, as the climate crisis in the region may also affect migrants. The exodus of migrants, including refugees, from Venezuela continues to be the biggest population movement in Latin America’s recent history and one of the largest displacements in the world. The 17 countries included in the Red Cross response are: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Curaçao, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guyana, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay and Venezuela.

Geneva, 16 July 2021–The InternationalFederation ofRed CrossandRedCrescent Societies (IFRC)warnsthatthe global vaccination rate must increaserapidlyand protection measures upheld,if we are to win the race againstmoretransmissible, and potentially more deadly,variants. At least three quarters of people in most countries want to be vaccinated worldwide, in the face of emerging new variants, according to new survey data.1However, despite lofty rhetoric about global solidarity,there is a deadly gap in the global plan to equitably distribute COVID-19 vaccines.Only around a quarter of the world’s population have received at least one dose of the vaccine.This number drops dramatically in low-income countries, whereonly 1% of people have received one dose.2And some countries are yet tostart mass vaccination campaigns. JaganChapagain, Secretary General of the IFRC, said: “To world leaders we say, it is time to pull out all the stops to boost vaccine production. This includes atemporary waiver on intellectualproperty, as well asthesharing of knowledge and technologybetweencountries.Vaccine equity is key to reducing the likelihood of variants and saving lives by limiting the spread of the virus. This is the only way we can truly end this pandemic. “The IFRC is already playing its part to get vaccines into the arms of the most vulnerable, but in some countries, vaccination campaigns have hardly started. Our data shows that people want to be vaccinated, but production and vaccine dose sharing needs to happen much faster if we want vaccination to outpace the variants.” The global number of new cases reported last week (5-11 July 2021) was nearlythreemillion, a 10% increase as compared to the previous week3.This comes asthemore transmissible Delta variant has been identified as the dominant variant in several countries across the globe, many of which have been hard hit in the latestpeaks.* As cases continue to rise in several parts of the world, the IFRC sends a strong reminder that, in the short term,the best methods ofcurbing transmissionsremain the same as they have been since the outset, even as restrictions ease in several countries. Emanuele Capobianco, IFRC Director of Health and Care, who has led theorganization’sglobalhealth responsesince the start of the pandemic, said: “We are facing adéjá-vu situation.Unless action is taken to curbtransmissionand boost equitable vaccine distribution,werisk going back to square one.This virus has not taken a break, and neither should we. As global solutions are sought, we urgently remind that we are all part of the solution. Get a vaccine, if you have access to one, continue to wear your mask, keep physical distance, and meet outdoors or in well ventilated spaces. “The uncontrolled circulation of the virus will significantly increase the risk of emergence of new and more aggressive variants. This is a deadly risk for everyone in the world, including people already vaccinated. The only way to reduce this risk is tomaintainpublic health measures and increase vaccination coverage everywhere in the world.” The IFRC and National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are already on the ground,facilitating the deliveryof vaccinesto overlooked and vulnerable communities around the globe.They relentlessly continueto treat, care for, and support hundreds of millions of people, as they have done since the start of this crisis. The Colombian Red Crosshas supported the vaccination of highly vulnerable and indigenous populations in the Amazon, whileChilean Red Cross is supporting the vaccination of migrants. The Red Cross Society of Seychelles has supported the vaccination of 83% of the country’s vaccinated population,while the Comoros Red Crescent is helping to identify and support the most vulnerable, elderly people, who want to be vaccinated. ThePakistan Red Crescent operates the only non-government facility designated as a Mass Vaccination Centreand in Bangladesh, theBangladesh Red Crescent Society has supported the vaccination of over 50%of the country’s vaccinated population. The Italian Red Cross is runningmultiplevaccination centresinthe country,andthe French Red Cross has supported theimmunisation ofaround 1.5million peopleso far, including through mobile teams thatvaccinate vulnerablepeople athome. The Lebanese Red Cross runs Lebanon’s largest vaccination centre,with thecapacity to vaccinate up to 5,000 people per dayandtheTunisian Red Crescent has supported the reception and care of more than 80,000 people receiving their vaccination. MrChapagainemphasized thatthough these are some of the hardest days the world has ever faced, we areallin this together: “We have seen how all parts of society have come together to protect each other during this crisis. We must not give up on this now. Millions of Red CrossandRed Crescent volunteers have stood side by side with their communities toprovidelifesaving supportandequitableaccess to a vaccine. We have been there since thebeginning,andwewill continue to be for as long as we are needed.” The IFRC will host a live Q&A with Emanuele Capobianco, IFRC Director of Health and Care onTwitter at 15:00 Geneva time. Notes to editors *In Tunisia more than 7,500 casesare being reporteddaily,almostfourtimes higher than a month ago. A significant increase in cases has also been reported in Libya, Iran and Iraq, a trend that the IFRC is concerned could spark a domino effectin the region. Indonesia is the newepicentrein Asia, with 54,517 recorded cases, which is a 565% increase. Across Europe,caseshave been steadily increasing over the past month, with sharp rises reported in the last two weeks(30% and 20%, respectively) including new variants.Worrying spikes of cases and deaths have been reported in many countries, but the situation is particularly concerning in Eastern Europe, SouthCaucasusand Central Asia as health systems in those areas are often fragile and most of the people haven’t yet been vaccinated. Africa has recorded a 43% week-on-week rise in COVID-19 deaths.Southern Africaisreporting concerning numbers of new cases with health systems stretched to capacity and decreased oxygen supply.The majority ofnew cases are nowsequenced as the Delta variant. All countries of major concern have reported less than 5% of their population receiving at least one vaccine dose. TheAmericas region continues to report the highest incidence of cases and deaths globally, with Cuba and Colombia reporting the highest relative number of new cases in the last week. [1] The RCCE Collective Service is an initiative led by IFRC, GOARN, UNICEF and WHO https://www.rcce-collective.net/resource/data-synthesis-public-perceptions-of-the-covid-19-vaccinations-june-2021/ [1] https://ourworldindata.org/covid-vaccinations [1] COVID-19 Weekly Epidemiological Update - WHO For more informationor to arrange an interview, contact: In Geneva: AnnVaessen, +41 79 405 77 50,[email protected] Tommaso Della Longa, +41 79 708 43 67,[email protected] About IFRC TheIFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 192 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies working to save lives and promote dignity around the world. www.ifrc.org - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

Addis Ababa, 25 August 2021 - The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) today launched a new collaboration to strengthen community resilience and response to public health emergencies at community level. The two institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to ramp up pandemic response—including testing support to countries; community mobilization; advocacy and scaling up of contact tracing. In addition to COVID-19, the collaboration includes other areas of public health. Africa CDC and IFRC will strengthen investments in locally-led action—for prevention and response purposes—while working with governments to ensure they intensify efforts to roll out the COVID-19 vaccination. Additionally, Africa CDC and IFRC will scale up advocacy against vaccine wastage. This new initiative comes at a time Africa continues to face major vaccine shortages, amid a high level of community transmission in countries such as Botswana, Burundi, Eswatini, Cabo Verde, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. John Nkengasong, Africa CDC Director, said: “Africa is facing a double-edged challenge of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, dealing with health response gaps, and also trying to ensure that the continent prepares efficiently for future pandemics, using lessons from current challenges”. Africa CDC has been implementing various public health responses to control COVID-19. These include the engagement of community health workers in risk communication and community sensitization; surveillance activities for early case identification; contact tracing and in facilitating referrals for testing and continuum of care. Jagan Chapagain, IFRC Secretary General, said: “What the IFRC and its network of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies bring to this partnership with Africa CDC is our unparalleled access to local communities. Our community-based volunteers have the access and trust that are needed to address vaccine hesitancy and sensitize communities about adherence to preventive measures”. The Africa CDC has been working to support African Union Member States to build a wide network of 2 million community health workers (CHWs) in line with the July 2017 African Union Assembly Decision. The collaboration with the IFRC network, which includes 1.2 million Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers across the continent is expected to strengthen community level interventions and consolidate gains in tackling the spread of the virus, while increasing awareness about vaccine benefits. National Red Cross Red and Crescent Societies across Africa remain on the frontline of the response to COVID-19. They are providing ambulance services; conducting contact tracing and point of entry screening. They are also tackling stigma and the spread of misinformation and provide emotional comfort and psychological support to people in need.

In response to the news that vaccines manufactured in South Africa are being exported to Europe, Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said: “We have long been calling for companies to consider manufacturing doses in regions that remain inequitably served of COVID-19 vaccines. That they should then be exported to regions that have vaccinated a majority of their population is incomprehensible. The African continent is still the most underserved in terms of receiving doses -- barely 2% of people across the region have been vaccinated. Yet, it is clear that profits are still trumping humanity. If compassion will not open the door to the equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccine doses, then let it be science, for none of us is safe until we all are. If parts of the world remain unvaccinated, this pandemic will not end.” For more information In London: Teresa Goncalves, [email protected], +44 7891 857 056 In Nairobi: Euloge Ishimwe, [email protected], +254 202 835 246

Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 18 August 2021:Southeast Asia is battling the world’s highest COVID-19 death toll driven by the Delta variant and unequal global distribution of vaccines. Hospitals remain overwhelmed by record surges across Southeast Asia, from Vietnam to Malaysia and Myanmar as fears mount of greater suffering and loss of life with COVID-19 spreading from cities to rural and regional areas. In the last two weeks, Southeast Asia has recorded38,522 deaths from COVID-19, nearly twice as many as North America, according to theJohn Hopkins UniversityCOVID-19 data dashboard. Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific Director, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said: “This COVID-19 surge driven by the Delta variant is claiming a tragic toll on families across Southeast Asia and it’s far from over. We fear that as the virus spreads from cities to regional and rural areas that many more lives will be lost among the unvaccinated. “Vaccinations are at record rates in some countries, yet many Southeast Asian nations have low portions of the population fully vaccinated and are languishing far behind Western Europe and North America.” The United Kingdom has fully vaccinated 60 per cent of its population, while Canada and Spain stand at around 64 per cent, according to Oxford University’sOur World in Data. By contrast, Malaysia has fully vaccinated 34 per cent of its population against COVID-19, Indonesia and Philippines, close to 11 per cent and Vietnam less than 2 per cent. Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and most Southeast Asia countries are all battling record COVID-19 infections or death tolls. Seven of the top 10 countries where COVID-19 deaths have doubled the fastest are in Asia and the Pacific, with Vietnam, Fiji and Myanmar all in the top five, according toOur World in Data. “In the short-term, we need much greater efforts by richer countries to urgently share their millions of excess vaccine doses with countries in Southeast Asia. We also need vaccine companies and governments to share technology and scale up production,”Mr Matheou said. “These coming weeks are critical for scaling up treatment, testing and vaccinations, in every corner of all countries in Southeast Asia. We must aim for mass vaccination rates of 70-80 per cent if we want to win the race against the variants and overcome this global pandemic.” Until vaccination levels reach a critical mass, in the short-term it is also crucial to reinforce health protection measures, such as wearing a mask, physical distance and meeting outdoors or in well ventilated spaces. The IFRC is seeking vital funding for its global emergency COVID-19 appeal, with around 60% of the appeal covered so far. The funds are crucial to support the lifesaving actions of the IFRC and member Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies around the world. Photos of Red Cross and Red Crescent activities are available for download

By Ainhoa Larrea, IFRC They are young, they are almost a million strong, and they are leading the humanitarian response against COVID-19 in Europe. More than 850,000 young volunteers of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across Europe are making a difference for millions of people affected by the pandemic, despite being increasingly affected as the Delta variant spreads. Many are becoming sick and being hospitalised, as the young are often the last to be vaccinated. In addition, they are disproportionately impacted by the socio-economic consequences of the pandemic, from unemployment to mental health problems. However, they are still stepping up to help. Daria Tkachenko, a university student, is volunteering with Russian Red Cross in her free time. She visits older people who cannot leave their homes, delivering medicines and groceries. “I remember well one of the women. She was a home front worker during World War II and served as a volunteer at a local branch of Russian Red Cross for years. She is a very active woman who always shines with optimism and joy; even now, when she is bedridden,” Daria said. “Living in isolation amid the pandemic is a big challenge for many older people, and not only for them, but also for relatives who cannot help their loved ones. That is why volunteering is so important.” She is also helping replenish low blood stocks. “Hospitals are in need of blood donors and blood components. I am proud that I donated blood, which in the future may save someone's life.” Ludovica, a 27-year-old psychologist, spent last Christmas on one of the Italian Red Cross boats where those arriving in Italy by sea undergo mandatory isolation and COVID-19 testing. She provided critical mental health support to migrant and refugee children. “During the time I was on board, there were 51 children mostly from North Africa and the Middle East. I organised educational and recreational activities with them: Italian language, card games, dance. “I had to carry out most of the activities at a distance, behind a desk. The most valuable moments were those when I was close to the children. I would then play the role of the white wizard, as the safety protocol obliged me to dress in a white jumpsuit, mask, gloves, goggles, cap and boot covers,” Ludovica said. Scientific evidence shows vaccination saves lives, but some young people are still unsure whether to get a jab or not. The Red Cross Red Crescent European Youth Network is playing its part with a joint social media campaign with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Participants encourage their peers to get immunised, sharing that the main side effect of COVID-19 vaccines is “a feeling of hope and solidarity.” Other young people are directly involved in vaccination roll-outs. Srna Spasojevic, 15 years old, is one of the youngest volunteers of the Red Cross of Serbia. Every working day, from eight in the morning until 6pm, she updates the lists of those waiting to get immunised in the Novi Sad Fair. “Sometimes you realise, when you are having a hard time, that there are others who are going through even worse. I am happy to be able to contribute to our country’s battle against the coronavirus,” Srna said. There are many more young role models among the 54 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Europe, each one helping to protect communities and to stop the COVID-19 pandemic.

Suva, 12 August 2021 – As global preparations take place this week to mark the celebration of International Youth Day, young people in the Pacific are urged to follow the example of Red Cross volunteers and join the battle against COVID-19, as the global pandemic continues to have significant health, social and economic impacts in all countries across the region. The call comes after more than 700 young people recently participated in a Youth Forum as part of the second Pacific Resilience Meeting, which highlighted the critical role they have been playing – leading action on climate change, responding to disasters and thinking through a green, low-carbon recovery from COVID-19. While young people are often referred to as the leaders of tomorrow, Fiji Red Cross volunteers are demonstrating the capacity young people have to lead right now, when given the opportunity. Fiji is experiencing extremely high levels of community transmission of COVID-19 cases, as the Delta variant of the virus continues to spread across the country. Young people make up 75 per cent of all Fiji Red Cross volunteers, working alongside the Ministry of Health on activities such as the vaccination roll out. Young people are leading the way on the COVID-19 response, with vaccination registrations, data entry and most importantly, helping to tackle vaccine hesitancy and the spread of misinformation about the virus. On International Youth Day, Pacific Red Cross National Societies are recognising the dedication and hard work of youth volunteers within and outside the Red Cross. Katie Greenwood, IFRC’s Pacific Head of Delegation, said: “We celebrate the remarkable contribution of young people in the Pacific as they play an integral role in making our communities stronger and safer. Young people are leading the way, using their diversity and energy to get targeted messages around community safety and resilience heard in every corner of the Pacific and beyond. We continue to strongly advocate for the recognition of the critical roles played by young people in shaping our future in the Pacific; working together to tackle the growing threats from climate change and disasters. We strongly urge that young people are given the space, the platforms and the resources to lead from the front on issues such as COVID-19, green recovery and community resilience.” Every year, International Youth Day is held on 12 August. This year’s theme is, “Transforming Food Systems: Youth Innovation for Human and Planetary Health”, with the aim of highlighting that young people are critical to achieve success of such global efforts. To mark this event, five Pacific Red Cross Societies from the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, Tuvalu and Fiji will celebrate the day through a number of activities such as online quiz competitions, wellness campaigns, and planting food crops. Tonga Red Cross will also be launching a National Youth Policy as part of their event. Katie Greenwood, IFRC’s Pacific Head of Delegation, said: “We know that everyone will celebrate International Youth Day in their own special way, and it is very pleasing to see our Pacific nations showcasing this event despite the challenges we face. It is definitely worth celebrating the hard work of our young people- many of whom will be doing what they do every day- leading from the front.” About IFRC IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 192 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies working to save lives and promote dignity around the world. www.ifrc.org–Facebook–Twitter–YouTube

Nairobi/Geneva, 11 August 2021—The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has warned that Somalia is on the cusp of a humanitarian catastrophe. One in 4 people face high levels of acute food insecurity and more than 800,000 children under the age of five are at risk of acute malnutrition unless they receive treatment and food assistance immediately. In addition to food insecurity, Somalia’s humanitarian situation continues to worsen due to multiple threats, including the outbreak of diseases such as Acute WateryDiarrhoea, measles, malaria and COVID-19. Mohammed Mukhier, IFRC’s Regional Director for Africa said: “Somalia is one of the riskiest places on earth to live right now. The country is a catalogue of catastrophes. Climate-related disasters, conflict and COVID-19 have coalesced into a major humanitarian crisis for millions of people. We can’t keep talking about this, we must reduce suffering now.” Somalia is vulnerable to extreme climatic conditions, including repeated cycles of drought, seasonal floods, and tropical cyclones. The country has also been grappling with the impact of desert locusts. People regularly experience loss of livelihoods, food insecurity, malnutrition, and a scarcity of clean water. Seventy per cent of the country’s population lives in poverty, and 40 per cent is estimated to be living in extreme poverty. The socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 are likely to lead to worsening nutrition outcomes among vulnerable groups—including poor households in urban areas and internally displaced people, many of whom live in crowded, unhygienic conditions and makeshifts shelters in the context of increasing food prices and reduced employment and income-earning opportunities. The IFRC, Somali Red Crescent Society and other partners continue to provide support to vulnerable communities. However, the resources are unable to keep pace with needs. Mukhier said: “We are doing our best to contribute to the reduction of hunger and disease. But, frankly speaking, available assistance remains a drop in the ocean, given the scale of suffering.” To address some of the many unmet needs, the IFRC isseeking8.7 million Swiss francs to support the Somali Red Crescent Society to deliver humanitarian assistance to 563,808 people in Somaliland and Puntland over 18 months. This emergency appeal will enable the IFRC and the Somali Red Crescent Society to step up the response operation with a focus on livelihood and basic needs support, health and nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene, protection, gender and inclusion, as well as helping communities to prepare for other disasters. On 15 May 2021, the IFRC released 451,800 Swiss francs from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) to help the Somali Red Crescent Society provide more than 120,000 people in Puntland and Somaliland with health and nutrition support. The Somali Red Crescent Society has unparalleled access to remote and hard-to-reach families, including those living on mountains or nomadic communities. Its integrated health care programme, with its network of static and mobile health clinics, is a key provider of health services. In a country with many nomadic and displaced people, it is challenging to reach communities with consistent health care: mobile clinics are one of the primary strategies to fill those gaps. The Red Crescent mobile teams are uniquely positioned to reach patients in areas that lack vehicle or ambulance services. For more information, or to request interviews, please contact: In Nairobi: Euloge Ishimwe, +254 731 688 613, [email protected] In Geneva: Ann Vaessen, +41 79 405 77 50, [email protected] Editor’s note Latest photos, videos and B-rolls, on the situation in Somalia, available on this link https://www.ifrcnewsroom.org/ To follow the conversation on social media, use this hashtag: #HungerAndDiseaseReduction

Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, 10 August 2021:Vaccinations have begun for people in the camps for displaced people, amid a record COVID-19 surge in Bangladesh and a widening global vaccine divide. The vaccination campaign begins on 10 August with priority for people aged 55 and over covering 48,000 camp residents. About 500 Bangladesh Red Crescent staff and volunteers are working under the Population Movement Operation (PMO) and the Myanmar Refugee Relief Operation (MRRO), in collaboration with UNHCR and health authorities, in the urgent rollout all over the 34 camps. There are more than 900,000 people living in the densely populated camps. Many people face ongoing health issues, limited access to hygiene facilities and safe water. Existing health clinics were already stretched to the limit, even before the COVID-19 epidemic. The Delta variant has driven surging infections across the country, with around 20,000 infections and 200 deaths recorded in the Cox’s Bazar district so far. A national positivity rate of around 30 per cent indicates the spread of COVID-19 is much higher, especially with cramped conditions and the risks faced by many people living in the camps. M.A. Halim, Head of Operations, Bangladesh Red Crescent Society in Cox’s Bazar, said: “This pandemic is inflicting a terrible toll on every aspect of people’s lives and has been compounded by recent floods and fires that have swept through the camps. Vaccinating is more important than ever to prevent illness and more loss of life in Cox’s Bazar. “Thousands of trained Red Crescent volunteers are playing a key role supporting vaccinations in the camps and all over the country including at our health clinics and door to door to encourage people to get vaccinated.” Hrusikesh Harichandan, Head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ Cox’s Bazar sub-office, said: “People in these camps are living in the shadow of the global vaccine divide. Widespread vaccinations are critical to contain this deadly virus. We need united efforts by national agencies and international organisations to help vaccinate all adults in the camps. “Vaccinations are vital for families to live with dignity because staying home is so tough for people in these cramped camps and most still have limited access to water and sanitation facilities, escalating risks from COVID-19.” Less than 3 per cent of the population in Bangladesh has been fully vaccinated and Bangladesh Red Crescent is working alongside health authorities to help vaccinate millions of people across the country over the next week. As part of a coordinated humanitarian effort, Red Cross Red Crescent has already established 14 healthcare facilities, helping to meet health needs of people living in the Cox’s Bazar camps. As part of the ongoing Population Movement Operation which began in 2017 and the MRRO which began in 1992, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, with the assistance of IFRC, other Red Cross Red Crescent partners and UNHCR, is providing both camp residents and host communities living on the periphery of the camps with healthcare, improved access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation services, shelter, livelihoods and other essential needs, along with reducing risks in disasters and protection support for women and those most at risk. In total, from the start of operations in 2017, Bangladesh Red Crescent has supported over 1 million people. For more information, please contact: In Cox’s Bazar: Ibrahim Mollik, +880 16 74 330863, [email protected] Sabrina Idris, +8801 763777999, [email protected] In Asia Pacific Office: Antony Balmain, +60 12 230 8451, [email protected] In Wellington: Ellie van Baaren, +64 21 774 831, [email protected] In Geneva: Teresa Goncalves, +44 7891 857 056, [email protected]

Budapest/Geneva, 6 August 2021 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is calling for more assistance and for vaccinations to be stepped up in Eastern Europe, South Caucasus and Central Asia, where rising COVID-19 cases and deaths triggered by the Delta variant are putting health systems under severe strain. Europe now has one of the highest per capita rates of COVID-19 in the world and has just passed 60 million coronavirus infections. There were sharp increases throughout July – and more than one million cases reported in the last seven days alone[i]. As the majority of Eastern Europe, South Caucasus and Central Asia is still unvaccinated, medical services in some countries are becoming overwhelmed. Birgitte Bischoff Ebbesen, IFRC’s Regional Director for Europe, said: “Time is of the essence. With the highly contagious Delta variant sweeping across the region, millions of people in fragile or unstable settings are at heightened risk. “With support from the IFRC, National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are working tirelessly to help those in need, but additional support is needed to save lives and address long term socio economic and health effects. The new wave of the pandemic is having a knock-on effect and will significantly impact the wellbeing of the most vulnerable.” In Georgia, new infections have skyrocketed by 90 per cent in the last fortnight. Authorities had to expand the capacity of pediatric wards recently, as more children were getting sick, and the number of hotels used as clinics for people with mild symptoms is up. In Russia, daily infections have almost tripled since the beginning of June, with 23,000 on average in the past week. In Kazakhstan, Armenia and Azerbaijan hospitalisations are on the rise. The situation is also deteriorating in Ukraine, as well as in Turkey, Montenegro and Baltic countries. Younger generations, who often come last in vaccination campaigns, are being increasingly affected by COVID-19 in the region. This is adding pressure on health systems, as many need to be hospitalised, and can negatively impact other people around them too. Ebbesen highlighted that vaccination is the key to curb the spread of COVID-19, together with maintaining crucial preventive measures such as mask wearing, hand washing, physical distancing and meeting outdoors or in well ventilated spaces. However, there is a widening gap across Europe: in the richest countries, 60 per cent of people had received at least one dose of the vaccine as of 27 July, as opposed to less than 10 per cent in the lowest income countries in Eastern Europe, South Caucasus and Central Asia. “Vaccination, not vaccines, saves lives. Donors, governments and civil society, we must all do our part so that vaccines get into the arms of those who need them most. “But this depends largely on the availability of doses and people’s willingness to get immunised. It is essential to collectively step up our assistance so that everyone has access to vaccination and nobody hesitates whether to get a jab or not,” stressed Ebbesen. Worryingly, as holiday travel and easing of lockdowns further the risk of COVID-19 spreading, vital operational funds to support people in need are running out. “We are concerned about not being able to meet the growing needs, particularly as the socio-economic crisis deepens. Not even 60 per cent of IFRC’s COVID-19 Emergency Appeal is covered, which limits our capacity to provide basic humanitarian aid,” warned Ebbesen. [i] https://covid19.who.int/table For more information, please contact: In Budapest: -Ainhoa Larrea, +36 705 070 131, [email protected] - Corinne Ambler, +36 704 306 506, [email protected] In Geneva: - Teresa Goncalves, +44 7891 857 056, [email protected]

By Baktiar Mambetov, IFRC Zamira, Larisa, Aizada and Nazira were struggling to provide for their loved ones. Widowed, in difficult economic situations, taking care of disabled family members or many children by themselves, they couldn’t make ends meet. But a Kyrgyzstan Red Crescent sewing course changed that. “The opportunity to learn tailoring became a ray of hope for me. It’s useful for us, and I don’t feel lonely or depressed any more as I’m part of a good team. We help each other,” said Zamira Zhumagulova. She is one of about 300 vulnerable women who have been trained and employed through the Skills Development Project of the Red Crescent Society of Kyrgyzstan this year, with support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). She was going through difficult times after being laid off from her job as a taxi dispatcher, but is now working regularly. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought along wide-ranging socio-economic impacts in Kyrgyzstan, like in other countries around the world. Many people have been pushed into poverty after getting unemployed, and face challenges to cover their basic needs. Thanks to the IFRC COVID-19 emergency appeal, the Red Crescent Society of Kyrgyzstan expanded the tailoring programme had been running for nine years with support from the Italian Red Cross into a more comprehensive training and livelihood support project, and that is making a huge difference for hundreds of vulnerable women. The initiative changed Toloshova Nazira’s life. A single mother of a disabled girl, she was at first reluctant to leave her daughter at home with relatives or friends. “I would constantly call home and ask how she was doing. Over time, I got used to it and could be more involved in the learning process,” she indicated. The courses helped unleash Nazira’s potential as a seamstress. A month after completing the training, she got a job in an atelier and was able to earn enough money to pay for a treatment and rehabilitation course for her daughter. She is also running a sewing business from home. As well as learning sewing, attendees are provided with food and clothing, and are taught about first aid and healthy lifestyles, infectious diseases, blood donation and the importance of vaccination. The IFRC assistance also enabled the Red Crescent Society of Kyrgyzstan to set up a garment factory so vulnerable women could receive a stable income completing orders for domestic and international clients. Ibragimova Larisa Samarbekovna, from Talas region, is one of them. A single mother of four, she lost her husband in 2006 to a chronic illness. After participating at one of the courses of the Red Crescent Society of Kyrgyzstan, she opened a mini workshop at home with help from her eldest children, and could even hire two of her classmates, including a single mother of two who is caring for a paralysed mother, Myrzakmatova Aizada. For the last nine months, 30 women have been working at the factory in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. They are primarily single mothers, women with large families, with special needs or disabled children, ex-TB patients or living with HIV. “It is very encouraging to see how motivated and hard-working these trainees are. They are determined to learn and eager to work. Each one of them has a human story behind, sometimes a dramatic one. It is great that through this project, the Red Crescent Society gives vulnerable women the chance to gain new skills, generate income and support themselves and their families,” said the course trainer, Aigul Omurzakova. With the COVID-19 pandemic far from over, the IFRC is aiming to shift from food aid and other material support to longer term endeavours that empower vulnerable people, increase their resilience, reduce their aid dependence and help them more efficiently in less acute, more protracted crisis scenarios.

Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta/Geneva, 13 July 2021:A deadly wave of COVID-19 fuelled by the Delta variant is crashing into South East Asia as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warns of a widening global vaccine divide. Countries across South East Asia from Indonesia to Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar are facing hospitals full and overwhelmed while many race to roll out vaccines. Around 10,000 COVID-19 infections are being recorded in Thailand a day, more than four times a month ago, while deaths have also reached record highs. Infections in Viet Nam have surged past 2,000 a day, close to 10 times more than in early June. Richer countries such as the United Kingdom have fully vaccinated more than half their populations. Viet Nam has fully vaccinated less than 1 per cent, Thailand around 5 per cent and Indonesia 5.5 per cent, according toOxford University’s COVID-19 Our World in Data. Alexander Matheou Asia Pacific Director, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said: “Millions of people in Asia are living on the cruel and sharp edge of a global vaccine divide between richer countries that have a steady supply and most nations in Asia that are struggling to access sufficient doses to keep their populations safe. “There is mounting evidence that COVID-19 vaccinations are already saving tens of thousands of lives around the world.” Across Asia, thousands of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers are racing to vaccinate people alongside health authorities, yet vaccinations are struggling to keep pace with the variants and the spread of the virus. “It is encouraging that a number of richer countries have made generous pledges and donations of vaccines to countries in Asia in recent weeks,” said Mr Matheou. “We need to speed up the delivery of these lifesaving doses so that we can get them in to people’s arms, giving us a genuine shot at containing this pandemic once and for all.” The IFRC is seeking vital funding for its global emergency COVID-19 appeal, with around 60 per cent of the appeal covered so far. The funds are crucial to support the lifesaving actions of the IFRC and member Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies around the world.

As National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies stepped up to respond to the global COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 also saw an increase in other emergencies around the world. The IFRC’s 2020 Annual Report shows that 109 operations were supported by its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF), with funding exceeding 34 million Swiss francs. IFRC Secretary General, Jagan Chapagain, said: “We have seen climate-related emergencies increase, with floods, cyclones and migration emergencies affecting countries around the world.We mobilised more resources to make sure National Societies have increased support from DREF - not only to respond but also to anticipate and mitigate the impact of crises on the most at-risk communities.” As COVID-19 gripped the globe, the Red Cross Red Crescent network reached more than 650 million people with health and hygiene activities and more than 106 million with water and sanitation activities. The IFRC procured 20 million Swiss francs of PPE for National Societies and sent 184 million tons of COVID-19 related goods to more than 60 countries. “I continue to be incredibly proud and humbled by the dedication and commitment of our volunteers, National Societies and IFRC,” Chapagain added. “Last year was extremely difficult, but also an inspiration in how we can come together to overcome even the most daunting challenges of our time.” In 2020, the IFRC also increased its investment in strengthening National Societies around the world by allocating 12.9 million Swiss francs to is Capacity Building Fund. -- Read IFRC’s full 2020 Annual Reporthere.

Kuala Lumpur/Dhaka/Geneva, 06 July 2021:Urgent action is needed to increase COVID-19 vaccine supplies for Bangladesh as hospitals reach capacity and oxygen supplies run short across the country. The deadly Delta COVID-19 variant is spreading fast in urban and rural areas across Bangladesh stretching the entire health sector beyond its limits. Hospitals in areas of Bangladesh bordering India are experiencing a sharp rise in infections and deaths. In the capital Dhaka, around 78 per cent of infections have been identified as caused by the Delta strain according to the Government of Bangladesh. Nearly one in three people (29%) tested is positive with COVID-19 pointing to much higher infection rates across the country. After a promising start earlier this year, Bangladesh was forced to halt all vaccinations due to a shortage in supply. Around 3 per cent of the Bangladesh population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19 compared with half the population of countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States, according to Oxford University'sOur World in Data. Feroz Salah Uddin, Secretary General of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society said: “The recent spike of COVID-19 infections in Bangladesh is deeply alarming and it is being fuelled by the more infectious and deadly Delta strain, with hundreds of people dying a week. “Bangladesh Red Crescent has ramped up ambulance services and efforts to help reduce death and suffering due to this dangerous virus. Our volunteers are working alongside health authorities to accelerate vaccinations, but a crippling shortage in supply is hurting progress.” Bangladesh Red Crescent teams are helping people with free ambulance services 24 hours a day, in 10 high-risk districts and providing oxygen cylinders across the country. Cooked food and other relief are also being provided to people who have lost their jobs or income. More than 13,500 Bangladesh Red Crescent volunteers are working across the country to help with vaccinations, medical care, providing masks and running public information campaigns on the importance of staying safe from COVID-19. Sanjeev Kafely, Head of IFRC Bangladesh Delegation said: “It’s critical that richer countries share more vaccines with Bangladesh in the coming days and weeks to help avoid the horrors caused by COVID-19 in India. “COVID-19 is having devastating impacts on millions of people in Bangladesh, with many losing their incomes and livelihoods. Mass vaccination is the key to ending the spiralling deaths, infections and hardships caused by this virus in Bangladesh and everywhere around the world.” The IFRC is seeking vital funding for its global emergency COVID-19 appeal, with around 55% of the appeal covered so far. The funds are crucial to support the lifesaving actions of the IFRC and member Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies around the world.

Violence and poverty drive millions of people from their homes every year. Thousands end up in the Balkans after long and dangerous journeys over land and across the Mediterranean. “Many flee conflict ravaging their countries of origin. Some have lost a father, a mother, a brother, a sister… or even their entire family because of war. Others didn’t want to be conscripted into the military and be forced to kill other people. Or they graduated from the best universities but did not have job opportunities to secure their future.” That is how Farouk Hwedy, from Syria, described the refugees and migrants he is assisting as part of the Mobile Team of the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo. He left Damascus in 2013 and arrived in Sarajevo five years later, after travelling through Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Greece. Grateful for having reached a safe haven, he is now giving a hand to others. “We are helping people from Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia… For me, it is a great honor to serve them because I know what they have been through and what they are suffering from. I know what they are missing, as it happened to me as well,” he explained. With support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina has been running Mobile Teams across the country since March 2019, and currently has 11 teams, which have had to readjust their work as new challenges emerge. “Before, I used to wake up every morning to go to reception centres, squares or bus stations with my colleagues to see migrants, listen to them and help them. With the COVID-19 pandemic everything has become difficult, but I love my work and I do my best to help more,” highlighted Farouk. Exhausted or disoriented, some people just want a listening ear. However, most are also lacking basic necessities, are injured or need other types of support. Farouk has to reinforce COVID-19 prevention and provide people with personal protective equipment. “We make every effort to explain the epidemiological situation to migrants, the risks, how to minimise them and prevent infections. We give them hand sanitisers and anything else they may need when we see them on our visits,” he added. So far, the mobile teams of the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina have distributed 244,200 food parcels, 169,400 non-food items (including blankets, clothes and sleeping bags), 42,700 hygiene kits and 16.200 personal protective items including masks and hand sanitiser. In addition, they have administered psychosocial support or first aid services more than 140,000 times. Farouk is delighted to be part of a Mobile Team. “Volunteering with the Red Cross is one of the most positive things in my life, it makes me happy,” he said. Looking at the picture of a toddler they recently assisted, he remembered him dearly. “I wish this child every success. We met him at the bus station and I will never forget him. He was coming from Serbia with his parents and had an indescribable smile. He started playing with us as if he had finally found safety.” He hopes the pandemic will end soon, and that people will grow more understanding of refugees and migrants: “At the end of the day, what everybody is looking for is just a decent life, a better future.”

“We have had cases of babies, sometimes just hours old, with the umbilical cord still attached, or children who were born in the boat and who would touch the mainland for the first time in our arms.” Miguel Vela has been a Spanish Red Cross volunteer since 2009, witnessing horror and desperation on a regular basis. A trained nurse, he is currently part of the Immediate Response Team in Humanitarian Assistance to Migrants (ERIE) in the Canary Islands – something he combines with his job in a hospital and the 112 emergency service. In 2020, more than 30,000 migrants arrived by sea to Spain, the highest number in 15 years. COVID-19 made the rescue operation even more complex. “The COVID-19 emergency added the risk of infection, the discomfort of having to use protective equipment despite extremely hot temperatures, the frequent modification of protocols and the psychological and physical exhaustion after long working hours,” explained Miguel. But he is aware of how privileged he is. “I have always had the luxury of going back home to running water, electricity and food. In the meantime, people continue to risk their lives in the middle of the sea or have to quarantine in overcrowded settings. Not to mention the bodies that reach the coast or those who do not even manage to touch the mainland, human beings whom no one will ever be able to watch over.” Miguel’s daily activity is intense, racing against the clock to save lives and help the most vulnerable. He is always on standby for a boat sighting. In such cases, he provides basic health and humanitarian aid to migrants upon disembarkation. His team does a first triage, taking those who need medical assistance to a nearby medical post. The rest of the migrants are given essential items including clothes, food and water. Miguel is particularly touched by the children they’ve seen. “No person should go through this, least of all a child. We should be embarrassed as a society,” he denounced. Working in such environment is never easy, but it’s been especially hard this last year. “The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to give 200% of ourselves without having a physical shoulder to lean on, struggling with uncertainty in the face of the unknown and with great fear,” said Miguel. His plea? More humanity and solidarity with one another. “To me, this crisis has been a parenthesis, a ‘stop’ in our lives. From one day to the next all our plans were disrupted, for a moment there seemed to be no distinction of social class, gender, ideals, northern or southern hemispheres... For once in history, we all seemed ONE fighting the same cause. “I invite you to continue maintaining prevention measures. The vaccine is the vertex of the triangle that will help us fight the virus, but it is important that it reaches all corners of the world. It is our duty as a society to ensure that. And I think this crisis is also an opportunity to further value life, the closeness of our own, a hug, a kiss or a simple look.”

Nairobi/Geneva, 2 July 2021 – Halting an increasing trend of COVID-19 cases in Africa will require additional funding. This was announced by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), amid a worrying surge of cases in Uganda, Rwanda, DRC, Namibia, Zambia, Mozambique, and South Africa. National Red Cross teams in these seven countries are stepping up surveillance, testing, healthcare and hygiene activities. They have also scaled up their COVID-19 awareness campaigns in public places such as markets and border points. However, efforts like these ones, aimed at containing the spread of the virus, have been strained by insufficient funding. With a third wave looming large, there are increasing concerns that the impact will be more devastating, especially if the shortage of funds persists. MohammedMukhier, IFRC’s Regional Director for Africa said: “Since the outset of this pandemic, not enough attention has been paid to the evolution of this virus on the African continent. Lower levels of transmission data have created the perception that this region has not been so affected by the pandemic. The upward trend in the number of infections that we are now seeing, is partly as a result of insufficient funding to address several gaps in the response. These include weak surveillance mechanisms; weak testing capacity; insufficient protective gear and medical equipment including hospital beds, oxygen and ambulance services. If these gaps are not addressed, cases will continue tosoar,followed bya peak in fatality rates, which is already being observed.” IFRC Africa has so far only received about half of the funds it requires to support 48 countries in their response to COVID-19. Crucially, these funds are almost depleted. Red Cross Red Crescent teams across Africa have been on the frontline of the response to COVID-19 since the outset. They are providing ambulance services, conducting contact tracing, promoting, and ensuring adherence to public health measures to prevent the spread of the virus and supporting in Infection Prevention and Control measures at treatment and isolation facilities and point of entry screening. They are also tackling stigma and the spread of misinformation by providing educational materials, running radio campaigns and informational hotlines for the community and providing psychosocial support to people in need. To address the secondary impacts of COVID-19, Red Cross Red Crescent teams have been providing cash to vulnerable families. Many of these vital prevention programmes are at risk, if more funding is not urgently secured. Mukhier said: “Without adequate funding, we are unable to respond to the needs of the communities we serve or address the gaps and challenges of this response. The gains that have been made over the last year are at serious risk of being lost, if funding is not made available to help us continue to reach the most vulnerable and affected communities in Africa.” The average number of new daily infections reported in Namibia and Zambia has reached a new high with 1,600 and 2,719 daily cases, respectively. This is by far the highest rate of infection (over 100 per cent increase) observed in these countries. Mozambique is recording 400 daily cases, a 10-fold increase in comparison with previous months, Uganda is now detecting over 900 daily infections, and South Africa close to 18,000 daily cases. In addition to lack of funding, there is the challenge of availability and access to COVID-19 vaccines: just over 1 per cent of Africa’s population has been fully vaccinated. Most of the countries experiencing increasing trends have reported less than 5 per cent of their population receiving at least one vaccine dose. Furthermore, the response to COVID-19 in Africa is complicated by the existence of other parallel and mutually exacerbating emergency situations. Rui Alberto Oliveira, IFRC’s Operations Manager for Africa said: “Responding to COVID-19 in countries facing multiple crises, such as DR Congo, Sahel, Lake Chad, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Sudan or Somalia, is extremely challenging, meaning the disease may continue to circulate unchecked. “We cannot wait for the situation to deteriorate further before taking action. We must ensure that enough resources are made available, now, to halt the progress of the imminent, and potentially catastrophic, third wave of COVID-19 in Africa.”

Geneva, 30 June 2021 – New research conducted by the Red Cross Red Crescent Global Migration Lab across more than 50 countries reveals that refugees and migrants continue to face serious obstacles in accessing COVID-19 vaccines. Despite some progress made in policy, the equitable inclusion of refugees and migrants in vaccination strategies and plans is far from universal. The new study, Sight Unseen: A vision for effective access to COVID-19 vaccines for migrants, takes stock of current global trends in migrants’ access to COVID-19 vaccines and builds on findings of an earlier report released in March 2021 by the Red Cross Red Crescent Global Migration Lab on the impact of COVID-19 on migrants’ access to essential services. Research draws on publicly available data from a wide range of sources, including academic institutions, governments, the United Nations, media and civil society organizations and is complemented by insights and cases studies from a survey of 52 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies working directly with migrants and host communities around the world. Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), said: “While some progress has been made on paper to include all migrants in vaccination strategies and plans, research insights indicate that - in practice - some groups, particularly undocumented migrants, are still left out. Ensuring everyone has access to COVID-19 vaccines is not just the right thing to do from a humanitarian perspective; it is also the smart thing to do from a health and socio-economic standpoint.” Across the global survey, National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies identified the following main barriers to migrants’ access to COVID-19 vaccines: 90% of respondents pointed to limited information about where and how to get the vaccine; 80% to vaccine hesitancy due to fears of side effects; 67% to language; 60% to lack of required documentation; 50% to fears of arrest, detention or deportation; 50% to limited vaccine supply; and 33% to complex registration processes. National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across the globe, supported by the IFRC Secretariat, are working tirelessly with governments and host communities to address these barriers. Among those surveyed, 87% indicated that they are involved in information-sharing and awareness-raising activities for migrants on where and how to access COVID-19 vaccines; 77% are supporting migrants in registering or attending vaccination appointments; 70% are involved in direct advocacy with governments and policy makers for greater inclusion of migrants; and 60% are specifically tackling vaccine hesitancy. Francesco Rocca said: “To beat COVID-19, we will need to focus both on the ‘hardware’ and the ‘software’ of successful vaccination. The hardware is about getting vaccines to every country and every community. The software is ensuring that everyone, including refugees and migrants, is informed and included. The work of National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies will be critical for both of these aspects. “To end the pandemic and drive recovery, it is urgent to break down all barriers and put in place measures that ensure access to COVID-19 vaccines for all.”

By Ainhoa Larrea, IFRC Arlen Matkasimov, a volunteer of the mobile brigade of the Kyrgyzstan Red Crescent, has been confronted with multiple life and death situations over the last months. “Once, following an emergency call, I saw a patient with oxygen saturation 43, when it should normally be above 95. We did everything to save her life. She fought very hard, and in the end she survived. At moments like these, you realise how extreme reality can be.” Kyrgyzstan reported its first cases of COVID-19 on 18 March 2020. The government imposed travel restrictions and curfews, shut down schools and universities, and asked people to work from home, declaring a state of emergency as infections and deaths soared. Like in many countries around the world, the situation quickly spiraled out of control. “It was sad to realise that our health system could not cope with such a large number of patients, and that many had to be treated at home because hospitals were full,” said Arlen. Helping people in such circumstances wasn’t easy. “We have been doing everything in our power to get out of this pandemic horror together. But, to be honest, it has been difficult. I would not want this situation to happen in any country. People really needed support, medical services were overwhelmed. “In winter, one day we had to go to the neighbouring region of Naryn. Our task was to deliver a seriously ill patient from there to Bishkek. It was very tough, two days without sleep,” explained Arlen. However, he is delighted to be part of a such a critical team. “I am proud that at such a difficult moment for the country and the whole world, I have been able to somehow help. I am happy that I have helped save people’s lives. Our patients are also someone's mothers, fathers, grandmothers and grandfathers.” “I began to appreciate more the time spent with my family. Far from home, you miss your family a lot. You want to see everyone, but you cannot. Because you are afraid to infect them. My family considered me a hero, as if I were at the frontline and fought.” Kyrgyzstan has registered more than 123,000 coronavirus cases and 2,000 deaths so far. With support from the COVID-19 emergency appeal of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the Kyrgyzstan Red Crescent has been carrying out wide-range of activities throughout the pandemic – from mobile brigades to vaccination services. Mass immunisation represents a crucial challenge for the country, as less than 1 per cent of the population has been vaccinated to date: 54,000 people out of a population of more than 6.4 million. Until more doses become available, Arlen calls for renewed attention to preventative measures. “The virus can infect anyone, anywhere. It has not disappeared and won’t disappear soon. Do not think that it will not affect you simply because you are young and because you are not like others. Do not risk your only life and the lives of those close to you.”

Rebeka Szilágyi was working as a midwife in a hospital in Budapest when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and she decided to join the Hungarian Red Cross’ H-HERO Health Emergency Response Unit. Her story illustrates the struggles and rewards of frontline volunteers: “When the first wave of coronavirus reached Hungary and the pressure on hospitals intensified, I worked in a COVID-19 ward for six weeks. So when numbers started to rise again in autumn I volunteered, telling my boss that I would be happy to go back. “One day in November I got a phone call saying that the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) was in dire need of help. I expected that this would be a much bigger and serious task than it was in the spring – and I was right. I have been working in the ICU for seven months now, and I don’t regret it at all: I would come again. “The COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit where I volunteer is like an enclosed arena where you have to fight a new enemy day in and day out. You never know what challenges you’re facing that day, because every patient is different even if the illness is common to all of them. “At first, it bothered me that after a few minutes I would be warm under the plastic coverall, double mask, glasses and three gloves, but later I didn't even notice them. Now I get caught up in tasks and sometimes realise that four or five hours have passed without me taking a sip of water, eating a bite or just sitting down. It’s a job that – as we say – can’t be finished, just stopped. “We don’t spare time or energy for our patients, and it’s difficult to accept that sometimes nothing can be done. Our hearts squeeze as sobbing relatives come in to say goodbye to a loved one. That was the case with a patient I had a small conversation with recently, and who was put on ventilation in my shift. I saw that COVID-19 was finally crushing his system. Smiling photos of grandchildren and relatives appeared from his belongings as I prepared the inventory of his personal items. I let out a sigh, and my own family came to mind. And the people I saw the day before in the supermarket, not keeping their distance, the mask pulled down to their chin... And the social media posts where they debated how severe the situation is, how effective vaccines are. “Our team in the hospital is fantastic. We are like a small family. On the toughest days, we keep our spirits up together. I truly look up to my colleagues: from doctors, nurses and other medics to cleaning staff, each and every one of them are true heroes! I am proud to be one of them, to work with them. “The situations I have experienced over the last months have left a deep impression on me. I have learned a lot in terms of humility and perseverance in addition to professional knowledge. The desire to help – the reason why I chose healthcare for a living – has become stronger in me. But, along with my colleagues, I am of course looking forward to the end of this devasting pandemic.” Hungary has registered more than 808,000 confirmed cases and 30,000 deaths linked to COVID-19. With support from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the Hungarian Red Cross has significantly scaled up both prevention and response activities. These include awareness-raising initiatives; direct support to hospitals with equipment, material resources and volunteers, logistical assistance, help with testing and vaccination, and operating the dispatch centre of the national ambulance service.

Kuala Lumpur/Suva, 23 June 2021 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) urges all adults to get vaccinated in Pacific countries including Fiji as it sets grim national records for COVID-19 infections. Fiji is struggling to contain the more virulent Delta variant and COVID-19 infections are doubling every 10 days in the country, the second fastest rate in the world, according to Oxford University’s Our World in Data. Most Pacific countries have COVID-19 vaccinations underway, however, misinformation and rumours, often spread via social media, are stoking fear in many communities and undermining efforts to speed up immunisations. Katie Greenwood, IFRC’s Pacific Head of Delegation, said: “In the Pacific, it’s a critical time to ramp up vaccinations while dispelling myths and rumours to help people understand the importance of being protected. We know vaccines prevent people from getting sick, help stretched health systems cope and crippled economies get back on track. “Closing the borders has protected Pacific countries from the worst of the health impacts of COVID-19 but millions of people are suffering terrible social and economic impacts. Many have lost jobs and income while the cost of food and other basics continues to climb.” Red Cross National Societies across the Pacific are working alongside authorities to help people be vaccinated in urban vaccine centres and in remote communities. While some countries in the Pacific including Fiji and Marshall Islands have vaccinated around a quarter of their populations with one dose, rates of full vaccination in areas of the South Pacific remain very low. The Solomon Islands and Fiji have fully vaccinated less than 1% of their populations, and Tonga has fully vaccinated 1.3% according to Our World in Data. “Protecting the whole population with vaccinations is a crucial step to prevent further suffering. The current COVID-19 surge in Fiji, is a serious wake-up call for the Pacific. Accurate and timely information saves lives. We cannot afford to let our guards down. “Red Cross volunteers have reached more than half a million people across the Pacific with activities to promote improved hygiene and information campaigns on keeping people safe from COVID-19. Each of us will only be safe when everyone is safe,” Ms Greenwood said.

Kuala Lumpur/Suva, 21 June 2021 –Six months after Cyclone Yasa tore through Fiji, leaving thousands of people homeless, essential movement restrictions to contain the dangerous spread of COVID-19 have delayed recovery efforts. Restrictions, while necessary to contain the spread of the virus, have prevented Red Cross from moving crucial items such as water tanks and construction materials to hard-hit communities on the island of Vanua Levu which is closed to travel. Thousands of people are stuck in temporary shelters without safe drinking water and hygiene requirements to stop the spread of the virus. Prior to the movement restrictions, Red Cross supported nearly 12,000 people with emergency relief, including food packs, kitchen sets and tools to start rebuilding, but longer-term assistance is needed to help the communities rebuild and recover. Fiji Red Cross Director General Ilisapeci Rokotunidau said: “We understand and support the importance of movement restrictions around Fiji to contain further spread of COVID-19, yet this virus has struck a double blow for those who were severely affected by the cyclone as it is almost impossible to transport relief items across to Vanua Levu. “We made significant progress supporting communities as they started rebuilding in the first three months of the year, however, there is still much more that needs to be done to help people rebuild their homes, make sure there’s clean drinking water so communities can thrive again. “Equipment and supplies have been flown in from overseas and we are ready to get them from the warehouses to the villages, the moment movement restrictions are eased.” Fiji Red Cross volunteers and relief teams have provided around 15,000 relief items such as tarpaulins, shelter tool kits, blankets, mosquito nets and water containers to affected families in the worst affected areas on Vanua Levu, Fiji’s largest island. Supporting people to rebuild their homes and building water tanks remains a priority for Red Cross teams. As soon as relief activities are allowed to resume, Red Cross will be supporting more than 1,000 families with shelter support kits and building 143 water tanks for communities in Lekutu and Dreketi. Supplies are short and around 1,500 families will also be supported with hygiene kits which includes soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes, family kits with clothing and bedsheets, disability kits and baby kits which includes diapers, baby wipes and napkins. Head of the IFRC Pacific Office, Katie Greenwood, said: “It’s critical that we continue to provide support for people who are rebuilding after having their homes torn apart, as families are managing the hardships caused by this pandemic on top of a devastating cyclone. We’re ready to provide further cash assistance for 500 families to help them recover as soon as movement restrictions are eased, while keeping everyone safe during this challenging times. When the movement restrictions are eased, we stand ready to continue our recovery efforts.”

Budapest/Geneva, 18 June 2021 – A looming heatwave in parts of Europe poses a deadly threat to the most vulnerable in our society, and action is urgently needed to protect them, said the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). According to European meteorological offices, Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland and Sweden can expect temperatures above 30°C this weekend. In Berlin, they may climb up to 35°C, which is 13°C higher than the average in this time of year. Dr Davron Mukhamadiev, IFRC Regional Health and Care Coordinator for Europe, said: “The double risk of heat and COVID-19 will be particularly dangerous for our most vulnerable – homeless, migrants, older people, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions. As temperatures soar, these people are at heightened risk. It is crucial for governments and civil society to increase support for them. Lives are at stake.” Heatwaves are the deadliest type of disaster in the Europe region. Increasingly common, they can aggravate pre-existing conditions and cause serious health problems. According to the latest edition of IFRC’s World Disasters Report, published in November, three heatwaves affecting Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom in 2019 caused more than 3,400 deaths. In 2020, risks associated with these extreme weather events were compounded by COVID-19. While there is a perception that we are at the beginning of the end of the pandemic, every day in Europe more than 52,000 new COVID-19 casesare detected and 1,200 people die on average. Dr Mukhamadiev highlighted that IFRC is supporting National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across Europe to expand their services during the warmest months, including providing first aid, helping people access health services and checking in on isolated and at-risk people. “French Red Cross is assisting the homeless, while Belgian Red Cross is vaccinating people living in the streets or in informal settlements as well as undocumented migrants. Austrian Red Cross is opening up cooling centres in cities, and the Netherlands Red Cross is visiting thousands of older people to share life-saving tips about staying cool and safe,” he explained. Experts are also concerned that as lockdowns ease and people grow tired of wearing masks in the heat, many will become infected and contaminate others. This, along with holiday travel, could lead to a new deadly wave across the region in autumn, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) “We cannot let our guard down. Staying cautious and following preventive measures on COVID-19 and heatwaves is more important than ever. Otherwise, health systems could again be overwhelmed and a spike in deaths may follow,” underlined Dr Mukhamadiev.

Kuala Lumpur/Yangon/Geneva,8 June 2021 – The Myanmar Red Cross supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is scaling up emergency support as hundreds of thousands of people in Myanmar need immediate assistance and access to health services. The Red Cross is urgently ramping up efforts to meet the rising humanitarian needs of 236,000 people across Myanmar. Prof. Dr. Htin Zaw Soe, Secretary General of the Myanmar Red Cross Society said: “Covid-19 has caused immense economic hardship across Myanmar in the past year. The current crisis has led to further social and economic upheaval. Many people are struggling to earn an income and have very limited access to basic services such as healthcare. “We are preparing to provide assistance to people who face worsening poverty, including immediate food relief, and cash assistance that enable people to buy produce locally, in turn stimulating local economies.” Factory and retail closures signal an emerging economic crisis with thousands left jobless. With no income, people living in informal settlements in urban areas are particularly vulnerable With a nationwide network, Myanmar Red Cross Society is the country’s largest humanitarian organisation delivering humanitarian assistance across the country. Since February 1, over 2,000 trained Myanmar Red Cross first aid volunteers have played a critical role on the frontlines of the current crisis, providing lifesaving first aid, healthcare and ambulance services,in line with their fundamental humanitarian principles of independence, neutrality and impartiality,to individuals injured and/or ill including pregnant women for safe delivery of babies. Until now, more than 3,000 people have already received these services. In the coming months, the Myanmar Red Cross will scale up its first aid and basic healthcare services and will also address rising food insecurity and poverty among families, including longer term support to re-establish people’s fractured livelihoods. Joy Singhal, IFRC’s Head of Delegation in Myanmar said: “With a steady increase in humanitarian needs we are preparing for what could become a protracted crisis. This means scaling up both immediate and longer-term support while also factoring in the limited COVID-19 prevention efforts in the country.” “As the deadliest COVID-19 surges worsen across Asia, every effort needs to be made to contain the virus as the monsoon season looms large, with cyclones and floods adding another layer of hardship for hundreds of thousands of people in the coastal regions.” Four of the five most vulnerable regions in the upcoming monsoon season - Ayeyarwady, Bago, Tanintharyi and Mon – have also been impacted by the current civil unrest. Between 2000 and 2019, Myanmar was one of the top three countries, most affected by the impacts of extreme weather events. In preparation for the monsoon season, the Red Cross is pre-positioning stocks of key relief items including shelter equipment for people displaced due to disasters and emergency response equipment such as water purification units. Note to Editors: The IFRC’s emergency appeal in response to the civil unrest in Myanmar can be downloaded here

Budapest/Geneva, 21 April 2020 – As Europe reaches the grim milestone of 50 million infections and 1 million lives lost to COVID-19, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) calls for more equitable access to vaccination to counter disparities across countries and ensure no one is left behind. More than a year into the pandemic, the situation continues to worsen despite vaccination rollout. The Europe region accounts for one third of cases and deaths worldwide, and the socio-economic crisis is deepening as newly vulnerable people seek help to meet their basic needs. Dr Davron Mukhamadiev, IFRC Regional Health and Care Coordinator for Europe, said: “Vaccine inequity is both concerning and dangerous. COVID-19 does not stop at borders, and our safety relies on widespread immunization. However, some of the poorest countries in Europe are struggling to move forward.” As of 6 April[1], just 12.3 per cent of the population in Europe had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and the lack of equitable access to immunization is still worrying: in low income countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova, only 0.4 per cent of total inhabitants had been vaccinated, on average, while in the richest countries that figure stood at 17.7 per cent. The IFRC is seeking funding for its immunization plan, targeting 500 million of the most vulnerable people around the world, as part of the organization's emergency appeal to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. Unfortunately, at present this is only 51 per cent covered. Without more funding, IFRC will be unable to make a meaningful difference for those in need. Dr Mukhamadiev said it is crucial for governments to step up their commitments towards ensuring that everyone has equal and timely access to the vaccine. “Equity is both a moral and public health imperative. None of us is safe, until we are all safe. At the national level, it is essential to guarantee that homeless, migrants – irrespective of their status – and other vulnerable groups are included in vaccination plans.” Hopes of Europe returning to normality are fading, as health systems in many countries continue to be overburdened and intensive care units reach a critical point. “Worryingly, National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across Europe are still witnessing the far-reaching impacts of the pandemic every day, everywhere,” warned Dr Mukhamadiev. “Volunteers who run ambulance services or support nursing homes and hospitals are directly confronted with illness and death, while those providing other types of assistance now deal with increased human suffering and people in need, including the newly vulnerable: including those who have lost their jobs and can’t make ends meet and those who cannot deal with difficulties such as isolation,” he said. In Spain, for example, 52 per cent of the people who asked for psychosocial support through the Spanish Red Cross’ ‘Cruz Roja Te Escucha’ service in the last months had never sought help from the organization before. Two thirds of the total reported having emotional distress most or all the time – including depression and anxiety. Dr Mukhamadiev said the key to successfully combatting successive waves of COVID-19 is vaccination and testing, together with improved treatments and preventative measures. People should continue to routinely wearmasks, wash hands and keep physical distance, as those measures play a major role in mitigating the spread of the virus. Note to editors: National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Europe have reached nearly 100 million people with health and hygiene promotion activities since the beginning of the pandemic. They have also provided food and other material aid to more than 14.4 million, cash or voucher assistance to 2.9 million, and psychosocial support to 1.8 million. Local teams are working tirelessly to help the most vulnerable, and continue stepping up vaccination, testing and awareness-raising interventions. Here are some examples: In Spain, staff and volunteers have assisted more than 3.5 million people through the ‘Cruz Roja Responde’ multisectoral plan, which includes emergency services and the set-up of temporary hospitals and shelters together with other types of support; they are also testing migrants rescued from the sea, and supporting vaccination in nursing homes and for persons with disabilities. In Italy, staff and volunteers are running one of the largest vaccination centres in the country, in Rome’s Fiumicino airport. Furthermore, volunteers are sharing information on a web radio station run by young migrants, and running podcasts on COVID-19; they are translating materials into migrants’ own languages, and circulating them in reception centres while operating a toll-free 24/7 hotline. In Greece, staff and volunteers in the islands, Athens and Thessaloniki are giving a hand with the health screening for migrants, they are responding to thousands of daily calls to their multi-language hotline, and they are disseminating preventative messaging. They have also supported the routine vaccination of migrants, and stand ready to assist in COVID-19 immunization. In Serbia, staff and volunteers are involved in the nation-wide vaccination campaign against COVID-19 and have assisted some 447,750 people – from phone calls for vaccination appointments to distributing leaflets, transporting vulnerable people, helping at the immunization points with temperature checks and paperwork – and, in some places, organizing vaccination in Red Cross premises. National Societies in seven countries (Austria, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal and Spain) are additionally scaling up COVID-19 testing thanks to a €35.5 million partnership with the European Commission. [1] Data from the World Health Organization (WHO)