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Press release

Crisis to Resilience: Supporting Mongolia’s herder families one year on

Ulaanbaatar/Beijing/Kuala Lumpur, 7 July 2025 —One year after Mongolia’s harshest winter in nearly half a century, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Mongolian Red Cross Society (MRCS) mark the end of a major humanitarian operation supported by an IFRC international emergency appeal.The operation has not only delivered critical life-sustaining assistance to over 25,000 people across 21 provinces but also supported the community to build long-term resilience to growing climate-related challenges.The winter that began in late 2023 saw a devastating Dzud -a severe, slow-onset cold winter condition where heavy snow and ice cover the ground, preventing animals from accessing pasture, causing widespread animal deaths.By June 2024, more than 8 million livestock had perished, some 12.5 per cent of livestock in the country according toofficial figures, threatening not only herders’ food source but also the main source of income for thousands of families.Life-saving support in the depth of winterUransaikhan, 68, and her 70-year-old husband in Sukhbaatar province have endured Mongolia’s harsh winters since the 1990s, yet last year’s Dzud tested them like never before. She recalled the daily anxiety and desperation of checking on her animals every morning.“Our animals were starving--I fed them boiled tea because we had nothing else”. At one point, snow sealed theirger - traditional Mongolian house- shut, and her husband had to lift her through the roof so she could dig them out. By spring, they had lost over two-thirds of their livestock.From the earliest signs of crisis in December 2023, the Mongolia Red Cross Society (MRCS) mobilized over 900 trained volunteers to reach over 5,000 herder households across 21 provinces.Through the CHF2.7 million Emergency Appeal which the IFRC launched together with MRCS, animal care kits enabled herders to protect their remaining livestock, and with multipurpose cash, they bought food, fuel and animal hay and fodder.As the disaster posed a profound psychosocial toll on the affected herders, the operation also delivered Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS), reaching 11,350 people and enabled 12 permanent MHPSS counseling stations along with essential training for MRCS staff and volunteers.Surveys showed that the majority of households were satisfied with the overall assistance. “The cash and items were so helpful. You couldn’t imagine how grateful I am,” Uransaikhan said. Under the cash programme and with the animal care kits, herder families including Uransaikhan were able to buy fuel and food to survive the worst weeks and protect their remaining animals.In addition, IFRC mobilised 7 IFRC surge experts to provide technical support to the MRCS in ensuring the high-quality delivery of the planned interventions and going deep into the hardest-hit fields to help strengthen the MRCS capacity to respond to the disaster.From recovery to long-term adaptation: Building a climate-resilient future“Dzud is a disaster that touches every part of a herder’s life,” said Bolormaa Nordov, Secretary General of the MRCS.“We witnessed Dzud happen more frequently from one time in ten years to every two to three years. Our goal was to provide emergency aid to help herders survive this disaster, regain livelihood and strengthen long-term resilience and adaptation.”As the weather transitioned, this operation continued with a focus toward recovery and building herder families’ resilience. By spring 2025, 30 animal winter shelters along with sanitation facilities were built, supporting 126 herders to better protect their livestock. Through income diversification and small business grants, the IFRC and MRCS helped herders generate different streams of income.While the operation has concluded, the commitment to long-term recovery and climate preparedness remains strong. The 2023-2024 Dzud underscored the severe challenges climate change poses.Looking ahead, the MRCS, with the IFRC support, is working on a Climate Resilience Strategic Framework 2025–2032 to proactively reduce climate risks and strengthen community-led adaptation and response capacity.“Even in the harshest landscapes, we saw immense generosity, strength, and spirit of mutual support, even when people endured so much loss,”said Olga Dzhumaeva, Head of the IFRC East Asia Delegation. “Our focus will be on long-term climate adaptation through early warning systems, diversified and resilient livelihoods, and innovative climate-smart solutions. Working with the MRCS, we will continue to strengthen community resilience and secure a sustainable future.”For more information or to request an interview, please contact:[email protected] Beijing:Kexuan Tong,+86 13147812269In Kuala Lumpur:Afrhill Rances,+60 19 271 3641In Geneva:Scott Craig: +41 76 370 3575

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Rooted in resilience: Cambodian Red Cross unites communities to restore mangroves

In southern Cambodia’s Kampot province, a recent mangrove planting event brought together Red Cross volunteers and local residents – young and old – along with the IFRC to restore degraded coastal areas by planting mangrove trees.“What’s special about today is seeing people from all walks of life coming together,” says 76-year-old Cambodian Red Cross volunteer Norm Teat.“Planting mangroves isn’t just about trees—it’s about protecting our future,” he adds. “These trees help prevent coastal erosion, support marine life, and even absorb harmful carbon from the atmosphere”.Recognizing also the vital importance of coastal mangrove forests in protecting shorelines during severe storms, the Cambodian Red Cross (CRC) is working partnership with IFRC, local communities and other stakeholders to plant mangroves and promote long-term environmental stewardship.These community-based efforts, therefore, are part of a wider campaign to raise awareness and increase resilience to climate-related disasters such as coastal flooding and storms.“In Kampot province, there are more than 800 Red Cross volunteers and more than 1,000 Red Cross youth,” said Men Neary Sopheak, First Deputy Secretary General of the Cambodian Red Cross.“The Red Cross’s mangrove initiative is a part of our broader commitment to bring healthy and climate resilient communities in Cambodia, By restoring and conserving mangrove forests, we help protect biodiversity, improve water quality, and support the livelihoods of people living along the coast.”Why are mangrove forests so resilient in the fact of severe weather? One reason is that some mangrove trees can “breathe” through aerial roots that rise above the muddy ground like snorkels. This allows them to survive in waterlogged soils.CRC’s approach extends beyond planting. Through community training in mangrove care, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection, the Red Cross is empowering local people to become stewards of their own environment. “The climate is changing, and we must support communities to adapt—especially for the sake of future generations,” said Kathryn Clarkson, IFRC Head of Delegation for Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR and Viet Nam.“I’ve joined mangrove planting activities with the Cambodian Red Cross many times, and each time it reinforces how vital mangroves are—not only as a natural defense system, but also as an absorber of carbon from the atmosphere and as a symbol of resilience.”For 76-year-old Mr. Norm Teat, the campaign holds deep personal meaning.“I’ve been a Cambodian Red Cross volunteer since 2014,” he says. “Over the years, I’ve learned so much—about health, disaster preparedness, vegetable farming, and protecting our environment—and I share this knowledge with my family and community”.As mangroves face growing threats from development and climate change, initiatives like these demonstrate the strength of community-led action.In recognition of World Mangrove Day this month, we celebrate the communities working to protect these unique ecosystems — for a greener, safer and more resilient future.By Kwanta Norkum, IFRC Communications and Reporting OfficerRead more about climate-smart disaster risk reduction at the IFRCRead more about climate resilience at the IFRC

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At a small school in Myanmar’s Sagaing region, people find safe haven after a devastating earthquake

When 26-year-old Khin Su Wai walks through the shattered grounds of Yadana Theingi Nun Monastery School in Sagaing Region, the memories are painful, but her dedication to her work as a teacher remains unshaken.“I lost everything – my two sons, my husband, and my mother-in-law,” she says quietly.On 28 March 2025, a powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar, destroying homes and turning entire communities to rubble. Yadana Theingi Nun Monastery School was among the hardest hit in Sagaing.Sixteen people lost their lives at school, including Khin’s loved ones. Khin has been a volunteer teacher at this school for more than 7 years.“I couldn’t eat or sleep. I didn’t even recognize myself in those early days,” she recalls.Yadana Theingi is not an ordinary monastic school. It is a place where internally displaced people from across Myanmar were hosted even before the earthquake happened. It is a sanctuary for over 100 students (ranging in age from 5 to 18) including novice monks, nuns, and children from diverse ethnic backgrounds such as Chin, Paluang, Shan, Burma, and Pa-O (from the Eastof the country).Everything changedAfter the earthquake, everything changed. Previously seated at desks in classrooms, the children now study on bare floors sharing only one whiteboard. When the main building collapsed, safe sleeping spaces also became limited.“There are not enough places for the children to sleep,” Khin explains. “We do what we can, but it’s very difficult.”In the immediate aftermath of the quake, volunteers from the Myanmar Red Cross – many from communities hard hit by the quake – jumped into action.In response to community requests, they set up tents provided to IFRC by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) with funding from the Government of the Republic of Korea. These tents offered a critical, temporary safe place for people as they work toward rebuilding their livelihoods, homes and communities.Red Cross volunteers also installed tents in nearby places such as mosques and community areas in Poe Tan Quarter, Sagaing.A comprehensive response enters a critical phaseBut this is only a small part of the support the Myanmar Red Cross delivered. In five states and regions impacted by the quake (Sagaing, Mandalay, Naypyitaw, southern part of Shan and eastern part of Bago), Red Cross volunteers provided tarpaulins, shelter kits, cash assistance, health care, mental health and psycho-social support, safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene services, and many other forms of support.With support of theIFRC Emergency Appealand other International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners, as well as other donors,the Myanmar Red Cross has so far reached close to 200,000 people with emergency shelter, health care, safe water, and cash assistance.This includes over 23,000 shelter kits, 6,000 family tents, and over 13,000 people reached with health care, including through mobile clinics.As we mark 100 days since the earthquake, the IFRC honors the dedication of Myanmar Red Cross volunteers – as well as volunteer teachers like Khin Su Wai – who have given so much to help their communities cope with these tragic events.The IFRC also calls for far greater support for its Myanmar Earthquake Emergency Appeal in order to enable the Myanmar Red Cross to help more people rebuild their homes, re-establish livelihoods, and restore communities.The next 100 days will be a particularly critical phasegiven that rebuilding safe transitional shelter and sustainable livelihoods takes more time and investment than the early, emergency response phase. At the same time, the Myanmar Red Cross will be helping these communities prepare for potential future shocks.Unfortunately, as of now, the IFRC’s Myanmar Earthquake Emergency Appeal has only garnered 22 per cent of the funds that would be needed to help the Red Cross achieve these goals.Reviving displaced dreamsAt the Yadana Theingi Nun Monastery School, the desire to rebuild is strong as many people yearn to get beyond relief and begin pursuing their real life dreams.“I want to help people rebuild the buildings safer,” says 16-year-old novice monk Khaw Gay Shwe, a student at the school. Khaw was displaced due to civil unrest from Chin State. His favorite subject is English, and he dreams of studying overseas to become a civil engineer.Another 12-year-old novice, Aung Khant wants to become a teacher like Khin. Like many of the students, Aung Khant has been helping to clear the debris from the collapsed building outside of school hours.Meanwhile, the young novice monks sleep safely at night inside the tents. “The novices really love the tents,” Khin says with a rare smile. “They aren’t forced to sleep there - they want to. It feels fun for them.”During the day, the children don’t stay in tents because they are exposed to the scorching 40-degree Celsius heat. But come nightfall, the tents transform into places of rest and comfort.For Khin, there is no going back to her old life. “I plan to volunteer at this school for the rest of my life,” she says. “I have nowhere else to go. Even though it’s painful, I will do my best to keep going."I’m truly grateful to the volunteers and donors who provided tents to our school as temporary shelter. There are still a lot of critical needs, from rebuilding the school to securing teaching materials and food. But step by step, we will rebuild."Learn more about the IFRC’s Myanmar Earthquake Emergency AppealOther articles about Myanmar earthquakeIn the wake of Myanmar earthquake, a mother finds strength in helping othersA tale of two emotions: In Myanmar, visiting people whose lives were upended by the March 28 earthquake, I am torn between hope and fearFrom the classroom to the frontlines: In the wake of crisis, ‘Teacher Honey’ transforms from educator to emergency responderMyanmar earthquake one-month on: needs remain massiveGruelling conditions in Myanmar as humanitarian needs remain high following devastating earthquakeOne Week On: IFRC Scales Up Myanmar Earthquake Response Amid Massive Humanitarian NeedsMyanmar Red Cross races against time to save lives after the earthquakePowerful earthquake rocks central Myanmar: Red Cross responds

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In the wake of Myanmar earthquake, a mother finds strength in helping others

Yadanar Yu Hlaing Kyuu, a30-year-old single mother of one,recalls the event of 28 March 2025 vividly. She andher family were having lunch in the outdoor, palm-roofed kitchen next to their home in Shwe Lunn Village, Mandalay, when the tremors began.At first, it felt like a minor shake. But soon, the ground shook violently. Yadanar instinctively hid her son under a table in the kitchen and shielded him with her body. Moments later, concrete buildings within their compound began to fall, and their house came crashing down.Yadanar, her son, and other family memberswere lucky to survive with no injuries.In the aftermath, she joined her neighbors in searching for survivors. At the same time, she frantically tried to reach her co-workers at a popular coffee shop in Mandalay to find out whether they were okay.Once telephone lines were restored, and she was able to speak with one of her co-workers,Yadanarlearnt that the shop had collapsed. While she was lucky to have survived, it hit her that she had lost both her home and her job.One hundred days after this life-changing disaster, the memories are still fresh for many like Yadanar who lost homes, livelihoods and loved ones due to the quake. But many here also remember the bravery and solidarity of people like Yadanar, who immediately joined neighbors in searching for survivors and helping people get through those first terrible days.Support from the Myanmar Red Cross, and the IFRC network (which launchedan emergency appeal and allocated 2 million Swiss francs from theDisaster Response Emergency Fund), has also helped people meet basic nutritional, health, water and shelter needs since the quake (see below for statistics on relief already delivered).Looking ahead to the next 100 days, continued local, national and international solidarity will be critical as the Myanmar Red Cross helps even more people such as Yadanar rebuild homes, livelihoods, support their families while preparing for potential future shocks.For this reason, the IFRC is calling for even greater support of its Myanmar Earthquake Emergency Appeal. Helping people to move back to earthquake resilient shelters and rebuilding livelihoods, takes more time and a larger investment than providing immediate relief after a disaster. Still, the IFRC’s international emergency appeal has received only 22 per cent of the funds needed to help the Myanmar Red Cross meet its earthquake response goals.From survivor to volunteerMeanwhile, in Yadanar’s community, solidarity between neighbors is what has helped them to survive day to day. It started from the moment the shaking stopped.As soon as the earth stopped trembling, Yadanar recalls, her family called out for help, a neighbor came and guided them to safety. Looking back, they saw that their home had been completely destroyed.Fearing more tremors, Yadanar’s mother urged everyone to run to a nearby field. While they were running, a second powerful quake struck. Temples and nearby buildings collapsed before their eyes.In the chaos, Yadanar didn’t hesitate to help. She joined efforts to rescue children trapped beneath rubble, using her bare hands to move heavy bricks and debris. With roads blocked and emergency vehicles unable to reach them, injured residents had to be taken to hospitals on motorcycles.For nearly 15 days, families slept in the open field, too afraid to return to their damaged homes as aftershocks continued.When Red Cross volunteers arrived to assess the damage, they visited each household and added Yadanar’s destroyed home to their list. Then, they returned with much-needed aid — tarpaulins for shelter, clean drinking water, and basic shelter toolkits.Impact with dignityFor Yadanar, the dignity kit provided by the Myanmar Red Cross was especially meaningful. At that point, she and her family didn’t even have spare clothes. The dignity kit included essential items for women, giving her comfort and a sense of dignity during a very difficult time.“The personal items and shelter materials helped us stay protected while we had no proper house,” she said. “We were so happy to receive these things, especially because it’s not easy to go out and buy anything after a disaster like this.”Yadanar says she is deeply grateful to the Myanmar Red Cross team and the donors who supported their recovery. She remembers how the volunteers walked from house to house under the hot sun to make sure families like hers were not forgotten.“Their support made a big difference in our lives,” she said. “I pray that all the donor families stay healthy and never have to face something like this.”Just a year before the earthquake, Yadanar went through a personal crisis and even attempted to take her own life. It was her father who saved her. Surviving the earthquake and seeing her son and family safe gave her a new sense of purpose and strength.Today, Yadanar serves as a volunteer camp committee leader at the earthquake relief camp where 126 families are currently staying near her home. She helps collect the names of people in need, organizes lists of homes that require rebuilding, and supports the distribution of relief items.The camp committee prioritizes families that are very poor or unable to rebuild on their own. She also contributes to building temporary shelters. Though she cannot give money, she gives her time and energy to help others in need.“If I can help others in this life, then maybe in the next life, I’ll be in a better place,” she said. “I hope my son will grow up in a happy family, with both a mother and a father.”Yadanar’s greatest hope now is to build a small earthquake-resilient house made of wood – a safe place where her family can live together again.In the meantime, her son is her biggest source of strength. After a long day of volunteering, he runs to her and calls out, “Mommy!” His love and pride push her to keep going. Her mother also encourages her.“My mother says she’s proud of me,”says Yadanar. “And people tell my mother, ‘Your daughter is amazing,’ and that means a lot … And for my son, people say, ‘Your mother is helping others.’ I want him to be proud of me.”Learn more about the IFRC and Myanmar Red Cross response:As of 30 June 2025, with support of theIFRC Emergency Appeal and other International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners, as well as other donors, the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) has reached almost 200,000 people. This includes:• More than 86,000 people have received health care• More than 1.3 million liters of drinking water have been distributed.• Sanitation and hygiene services have benefitted thousands of people through the construction of latrines, distribution of hygiene kits, and hygiene awareness.• More than 156,000 people have received household items such as shelter kits, mosquito nets, and kitchen sets.• More than 100,000 people have received complementary cash assistance.• 19,000 people have been reached with gender- and age-specific items such as dignity kits, infant kits, and delivery kits.Donate to the Myanmar Earthquake Emergency Appeal

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Remote mountainside communities in Nepal: the key source for sustainable solutions in post-earthquake water initiative

The devastating earthquake that struck Nepal in November 2023 not only damaged or destroyed over 75,000 homes and disrupted the livelihood of thousands of people, it also severely damaged critical water sources that communities rely on for everyday survival.In many places, the Karnali earthquake, as it’s called here, altered the local geology enough it disrupted long-time underground water channels. In many cases, springs and wells dried up, or shifted downhill to another location, due to the shifting ground caused by the earthquake.On top of that, the earthwyake severely damaged the infrastructure that brought water to people’s homes and communities. For many communities, this has meant washing, cooking, and irrigating with a lot less available water.To get at the source of the challenge, the Nepal Red Cross Society went directly to the impacted communities. As part of its Karnali Earthquake Response and Recovery Operation, theNepal Red Cross has been working closely with remote rural mountainside communities to create new water sources and systems.From the beginning, the construction of safe drinking water sources involved extensive consultations with local water-use committees, formed to lead the process and ensure that system design is based on a thorough understanding or how and where communities need water delivered.Because most of the intensive household users of water are women, there was significant and enthusiastic female participation, with women taking on important roles of the water committees. One of those women is Mani kumari Khatri, who worked along with her neighbours and the NRCS during the construction of the water supply system.“We now have water from our household tap even after a dry winter this year,”says Mani Kumari Khatri, a local resident of Rukum West. “This water scheme has also provided additional opportunities to grow vegetables in kitchen garden which can be our food, or we can generate some income by selling those vegetables in local market.”“The Red Cross recognised our need for the water and supported the entire building of the water scheme in our community,” she adds. “They worked together with the community to complete the scheme that now benefits twenty-four houses.” With the support of IFRC network, the NRCS supported several communities with safe drinking water systems, along with help with repairs and maintenance in all three earthquake affected districts of Karnali province (Jajarkot, Rukum West and Salyan). In total, this operation has has so far led to:Construction of 23 water supply projects, out of which 16 were repair and maintenance of the existing systems, and 7 were newly constructed.A total of 951 households (322 Jajarkot, 397 Rukum West and 232 Salyan) benefited from these schemes.These efforts are meant to complement the Nepal government’s nationwide implementation of its “One house, one tap” policy as well as the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets for universal access to safe drinking water by 2030.Getting involved in water scheme constructionHajari Oli is another representative among many who have actively contributed to the construction of water supply scheme. As the committee that was formed, Hajari was appointed treasurer. Besides managing the financial expenses for the water supply scheme, she regularly provided much-needed input in the construction of the water scheme, including a lot of hands-on work with many aspects of the building process.“Our village lies at the top of the hill and remains mostly dry, so we, especially the women, have to take a time-consuming trip to collect and fetch water for drinking and for other household purposes,” says Hajari Oli.Now with the support from Nepal Red Cross, the community is constructing two water reservoir tanks and drinking water will soon be available at household level. “We are very happy and excited with this support from the Red Cross. After it is completed, we will use water for drinking as well as for irrigation,” she adds.Local women also helped to collect and manage locally obtained materials, and participated in pipe laying, digging ground, and active leadership in the water user committee.“We had formed a group and divided the responsibility as per our abilities,”says Bhadi Kumari, a member of the committee. “Everyone from the community, including many older people came out together to contribute with great enthusiasm.”Many community members were also able to contribute their own technical skills and experience. A plumbing technician by trade, Karna has over 30 years of experience in water supply systems under his belt and has been involved in the construction of more than 250 water schemes and reservoir tank building.For this reason, the community commissioned him to help with the construction of the two water schemes in Rukum West district, especially for the building of reservoir tanks and plumbing works.“I had received training on water supply scheme construction a long time ago,”says Karna. “From then onwards, I have been working continuously in constructions of the water schemes in many communities including in the neighbouring districts.”Experienced technicians like Karna were not the only ones that were engaged for the construction of the water scheme but opportunities were also provided to young aspiring students like Bibek so that they can acquire practical hands-on skills and exposure.“I got the opportunity to work as technical volunteer for the Red Cross and it was a privilege to serve my community,”says Bibek, technician from Jajarkot. “In addition, I gained practical experience which expanded my knowledge and confidence.”The Water Safety Plan includes the provision of the maintenance fund, caretaker/plumber and include agreed monthly tariff collection from the users, based on the consumption of water through meter reading.From the beginning, it was clear that the local communities shared the NRCS goal of creating durable solutions.“I am voluntarily leading the construction of the water supply scheme in my community,”says Ram Karki, Chairperson of Water User Committee of Jajarkot. “I want to make this scheme work for generations, as we have faced a lot of challenges for safe drinking water before. We have set water pipeline from more than 8 KM from tough terrain in search of quality and durability of source for this scheme.”Transparency and accountabilityIn Karnali Earthquake Recovery Operation, all the construction of the schemes were done in the leadership of the water user committees. From the beginning of the construction work, NRCS had shared the amount of contribution from the organisation as well as from the community.NRCS had organised public audits in the presence of the community members and local stakeholders before handing over the schemes to the communities. During these public audits, detailed expenditure reports were shared. Information boards with detailed budgets were also put up at construction sites for wider information dissemination and transparency.

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IFRC and Takeda initiate ‘United Against Dengue’ alliance to combat escalating threat of dengue

Dengue fever, a rapidly escalating public health crisis, casts a long shadow over millions in Asia. With climate change and urbanization fuelling its spread, the figures are stark: with Asia shouldering approximately 70 percent of the global disease burden.In response to this urgent challenge, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC APAC) and Takeda have joined forces in a landmark collaboration: United Against Dengue.This multi-year strategic collaboration is dedicated to advancing the World Health Organizations’s goal of achieving zero preventable dengue deaths by 2030, by championing collective action through community programs."Eliminating dengue in the Asia-Pacific region requires a collective effort," states Dr. Sushma Bhusal, Regional Thematic Lead, Health and Care, Asia Pacific, IFRC. "The response must go beyond the health sector alone."A synergistic approach to a complex problemUnited Against Dengue is designed to catalyze community-led action, empowering individuals and families to protect themselves. This partnership leverages the unique strengths of both organizations."We were drawn to partner with Takeda because of their commitment to global health and their expertise in the scientific and healthcare sector," Dr. Bhusal explains."This partnership allows us to combine IFRC's strong volunteer networks and exceptional community-based expertise with Takeda's scientific expertise, resources, and global network to elevate dengue awareness, advocate for enhanced disease prevention measures, and protect at-risk populations more effectively."Dion Warren, Area Head, India and Southeast Asia, Takeda, underscores the critical nature of the threat and the importance of a synergistic approach to fighting dengue."Factors like climate change and urbanization are fuelling the spread of dengue, which poses a significant public health threat, potentially affecting millions across Asia," he notes."Joining forces with IFRC, we aim to strengthen the foundation of community resilience by advancing disease literacy, enhancing early action capabilities, and empowering local health systems.“United Against Dengueis designed to strengthen and complement existing public and community efforts to combat dengue collectively and ensure that communities are better equipped to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to dengue outbreaks.This collaboration is a call to action, underlining the urgent need for a unified, multi-sectoral action."Three pillars for comprehensive actionThe United Against Dengue collaboration is structured around three strategic pillars, ensuring a holistic approach:The first pillar is Educate, which focuses on building community resilience and readiness through impactful disease education and early preparedness. Efforts include community awareness campaigns, volunteer training using the Epidemic Control for Volunteers (ECV) toolkit, and hygiene promotion through community engagement. Enhanced surveillance systems and early action protocols will also be introduced to guide community responses and improve outcomes.A cornerstone of the Educate pillar is leveraging relatable content to drive community action. Kicking off the United Against Dengueinitiatives is the launch of a themed comic developed by popular cartoonists The Woke Salaryman.The comic is focused on discussing the importance of collaborative efforts between communities to prevent the spread of dengue. It will be translated into different languages and will be shared through IFRC APAC channels for community education and leveraged for community engagement activities in the long run."Relatable educational content is absolutely essential," Dr. Bhusal emphasizes. "Dengue prevention requires a change in behaviour, and that change is far more likely to occur when people understand the risks in a way that connects with their daily lives."Mr. Warren adds, "Leveraging their unique brand of storytelling, the series brings to light the impact of urbanization on community ties in Asia and beyond. The series not only raises awareness about dengue but also underscores the critical role of community collaboration in disease prevention efforts."The second pillar, Advocate,is centered around ensuring the sustainability of preventative measures through policy work and stakeholder engagement. This includes working closely with policymakers, medical societies, and community organizations to support the integration of dengue prevention, management and control into national strategies.Regional and national alignment across public health stakeholders is also prioritized to drive unified action and strengthen health system resilience for long-term impact.The third pillar, Support, focuses on providing care and assistance to communities and individuals affected by dengue.These efforts represent the initial focus of United Against Dengue and are not exhaustive. Additional efforts will be introduced as the initiative continues to respond to evolving community needs and opportunities for greater impact.A unified front for a healthier futureThe escalating global spread of dengue demands a robust, coordinated response. "As the global spread of dengue intensifies, it is evident that a coordinated and strategic approach is essential," says Dr. Bhusal. "By working together – as communities, across the public and private sectors, and as a region – we can pool our resources, share our expertise, and leverage our collective influence to achieve greater impact."The United Against Dengue initiative represents more than a program; it is a commitment that complements existing public health efforts by empowering communities to combat dengue through a multi-pronged approach: disease education, early action protocols, targeted public awareness campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and support for affected individuals and communities.Aimed to enhance dengue awareness and bolster protection efforts, the initiative will be rolled out across Asia and beyond. Additional regional and local programs will be launched to further drive collective action, enhance dengue awareness, and support dengue prevention efforts.Read the full comic strip illustrated by The Woke Salaryman

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From the classroom to the frontlines: In the wake of crisis, ‘Teacher Honey’ transforms from educator to emergency responder

For 13 years, Honey Thin, affectionately known to her students and colleagues as “Teacher Honey,” has dedicated her life to education.As vice principal and head of the English Department at Sunflower Myanmar International School in Mandalay, she has played a crucial role in shaping young minds, teaching English under the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) program.But when a devastating earthquake struck her hometown of Mandalay, Teacher Honey’s calling extended beyond the classroom. She vividly recalls the day the earthquake struck on 28th March, 2025.“I was at school after the lunch break, about to return to my classroom when the ground started shaking,” she recalls.Honey quickly reassured two colleagues she was with to stay calm, thinking it was just a small tremor like the ones she had experienced before.However, the shaking quickly intensified so she and her team took cover under their desks for protection.When the tremors subsided, a fellow teacher opened the door and urged everyone to evacuate immediately without stopping to collect any belongings. Together, they led more than 400 students, with age ranging from five to fifteen, down from the third floor. Thankfully, all of them made it out safely without injury.This was not Honey's first experience with relief work. In September 2024, she and her school team coordinated with the Myanmar Red Cross to provide basic relief supplies to flood-affected families across the Mandalay region when Typhoon Yagi hit.This earlier collaboration, which was also her first exposure to MRCS, left a strong impression on her and solidified her decision to take a more active role when the earthquake struck.“Before the earthquake, my days were filled with teaching, studying, managing teaching staff, and communicating with parents,” Honey shares. However, witnessing the scale of devastation after the earthquake, she felt a deep urge to do more.Just ten days after the disaster, she joined the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) as a volunteer, eager to support the relief and recovery of her community.“I’m just an ordinary person. At first, I felt lost and frustrated during the earthquake, unsure whether to stay or escape. But I calmed myself and found resilience. I realized the community needed us and decided to help in any way I could. That’s why I chose to volunteer with the Red Cross.”Today, Teacher Honey balances her role in education with her commitment to humanitarian work. She supports earthquake response efforts by spraying pesticides to prevent disease, assisting at mobile clinics, distributing purified drinking water, and conducting community assessments to identify urgent needs.Through all these experiences, she has witnessed a broad range of humanitarian challenges beyond her classroom.“In just six days, I have worked across six different locations and taken on six different duties. I’m both excited and proud of myself,” Honey reflects.After the earthquake, Teacher Honey continues teaching her students online, ensuring their learning remains uninterrupted.Despite the ongoing challenges caused by the earthquake, Teacher Honey has continued her commitment to education through online teaching. Using digital platforms, she connects with her students, ensuring that their learning journey is not interrupted even amid the disaster’s aftermath.For Teacher Honey, education is not just about lessons in a classroom, it is a means of providing stability, hope, and life skills, even in times of crisis. This approach aligns with the principles of RED Education, a global initiative that brings together the IFRC network’s efforts to support education in formal and non-formal spaces for children and young people before, during and after disasters or crises. The approach promotes community resilience, knowledge-sharing, and community empowerment.“Before, my world was mostly limited to the classroom—a small space. Now, I see the broader impact we can have, even among broken buildings and disrupted lives.”

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Disaster preparedness: When help is far away, being ready is even more critical

Imagine being the person in charge of coordinating emergency response across a vast oceanic region in which it often takes weeks – and sometimes even months – for critical supplies to arrive by boat or plane.This is just one of the challenges that Maciu Nokelevu faces almost every day as IFRC’s Senior Disaster Risk Management Officer for the Pacific."Our daily job is to organize logistics and access to the most isolated islands in the Pacific, ensuring we are prepared to respond to emergencies,” says Nokelevu.While countries like Fiji have better access due to their long standing status as a hub for tourism, the vast Pacific Ocean region poses significant challengesfor National Societies on the smaller, lesser frequented islands. “When international procurement is needed, aid can take over three months to arrive, far too long for an urgent crisis,” says Nokelevu.On top of that, communication failures also disrupt response efforts. "After cyclones, damaged infrastructure often cuts off headquarters from affected islands, making coordination extremely difficult,"Nokelevu explains.In this context, strengthening the preparedness levels of local communities and Red Cross and Red Crescent National Societies has proven to be key, particularly as climate-related emergencies are increasingly frequent and severe.In 2024, for example, the Philippines experiencedsix typhoons in under a month, an unprecedented pattern of extreme weather that left communities with no time to recover between storms.For this reason, the IFRC and its network of volunteers have been working hard to ensure volunteers are well trained and ample supplies are stored close by. This allows response efforts to begin immediately, well before any external or international support arrives.“Through volunteer training, simulation exercises, and risk assessments, National Societies can identify vulnerabilities and enhance their response capacity,” Nokelevu continues. “Coordination with governments and humanitarian partners ensures a unified approach to overcoming logistical and communication barriers.”A decentralized, local and fast responseA half a world away, Munguntuya Sharavnyambuu faces similar challenges – albeit in a very different environment. AsDirector of the Climate Change and Disaster Management department for the Mongolian Red Cross Society(MRCS), she regularlyexperiences flash floods, sandstorms, snowstorms, and forest fires.These emergencies often strike in remote areas where access to basic services is limited. One of most challenges is something known as the “dzud”, an extreme cold spell.“A Dzud is one of the most devastating hazards in Mongolia, with temperatures dropping below -30°C," she explains, adding that cold spells often also bring heavy snowfall and strong winds. “The winter of 2023-2024 recorded the highest snowfall in 49 years, covering 90 per cent of the country. This severely impacted herder communities because it caused there to be very limited grazing opportunities for animals.”“To address these challenges, the MRCS prioritizes preparedness by training volunteers and staff, pre-positioning emergency supplies, and decentralizing response efforts to ensure aid reaches communities within the critical first 72 hours of a disaster.” Built on experienceBeing ready for potential emergencies is critical everywhere. But its importance is often heightened in a region where entire countries can be cut off from the outside world. That is something that emergency responders in Tonga experienced firsthand when the country experiencedvolcanic eruptionand tsunamiin 2022.When the disaster struck, it severed undersea communication cables and filled the atmosphere with volcanic ash, blocking satellite signals. For 72 hours, Tonga was completely cut off from the world.Despite the communication blackout, response efforts were already on the ground. According to Maciu, this case underscores the vital role of National Society preparedness.“Years of emergency response training, contingency planning, preparedness exercises, and readiness simulations ensured that volunteers on the ground could take immediate action such as clearing airport runways and coordinating relief efforts, even before external aid could reach the islands,” concludes Maciu.The effort to enhance preparedness in the region is not new, however. The IFRC’s 11th Asia-Pacific Regional Conference, held in Vietnam in 2023, served as a pivotal platform for National Societies to deepen their shared understanding of risk and preparedness strategies in an era marked by climate change and other emerging hazards.The conference endorsed the Hanoi Call for Action, which seeks to strengthen individual and collective preparedness for crisis response."It is critical to invest in preparedness to maintain an appropriate level of readiness for effective responses,”adds Felipe del Cid, Lead andThematic Expert on Evolving Crises and Disasters at the IFRC Asia Pacific office in Kuala Lumpur. “Investing in this today will define how effectively the world can respond to the crises of tomorrow.”By Olivia AcostaRead more:Disaster and crisis preparedness at the IFRCIFRC’s approach to localization

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Emergency

Myanmar: Earthquake

A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar on 28 March at 1:10 PM local time, with its epicenter just 17 kilometres from Mandalay. This was followed by a powerful 6.4 magnitude aftershock, intensifying the destruction. Entire buildings have collapsed, key infrastructure has been severely damaged, and communications remain cut off in many areas. The Myanmar Red Cross Society has activated its Emergency Operations Centers and deployed volunteers for search and rescue. The full scale of the disaster is still unfolding, but early reports indicate significant humanitarian needs. Your contribution will support the Myanmar Red Cross in its efforts to rescue survivors, bring urgent care and help people through their recovery.

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World Water Day: After the quake, Red Cross brings life-changing water to Vanuatu’s hidden communities

When the island nation of Vanuatu was hit by a powerful earthquake in December2024, much of the global media attention focused on the damage to the island nation’s most populated areas, in particular its capital, PortVila.Manyrural and remotecommunities suffered just as badly. But they did not get the same immediate attention. One of theseis the out-of-the-way community of Britano, avillage of 750 residentsthatis a 30-minute walk up a bumpy road from the island’s main highway.“Before Red Cross came, Britano residents were really stuck,”says the community’s chief, George John. “Unlike other areas, we cannot survive on food from the garden because we don’t have room for plots of land.”Britano was hit particularly hard by the quake because it destroyed the very businesses and livelihoods people relied on to pay for food, school fees and basic needs.Local resident Meriam Motoutorua says people are finding it hard to make ends meet.“Most of us worked in the city [Port Vila], but after the earthquake we have no income,”she said. “We relied on the market to buy our food. It is really hard to provide daily meals, pay school registration fees and bills.Now, all people can do is sit at home and worry where their next meal is coming from.”Water sources destroyedBritano also lostits only source of clean, safe water.Water from Britano’s six mains taps were reduced to a dribble, forcing residents to wash and collect water from a creek down in a steep nearby valley.“Women are washing their clothes in the river down there,” says AndrewNayo, Britano’scommunity chairman. “They go there and bring the water back.”Not only is it a long trek with heavy water bottles, the water itself is not safe. “This water is mixed with the waste coming from people using the spring,” adds Motoutorua.Water brings new hope to a neglected communityWithin days after the quake, Britanowas still waiting for newsfrom the outside world. The first sign that help was on the way waswhena Vanuatu Red Cross team arrived to conduct a health assessment and distribute water.They quickly reported back to headquarters and soon after,Dickinson Tevi,the VRCSSecretaryGeneral,arrived with his team totake stock of what was needed. Britano’s leaders told him: “We urgently need help solve the lack of clean water.”The help they needed has now arrived in the form oftwo 6,000-litrewater tanks, installed atop a solid foundation of rock and concrete. It wasa challenging project, not least because of Britano’s hard-to-access location and rocky ground, which made digging the foundation a difficult task. Getting permission to build also required negotiating with land owners.From the beginning, it was a team effort. The Vanuatu Red Cross Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) team engaged with the Britano community to solve the water-shortage problem. The Vanuatu Red Cross engaged community labourers and ordered the tanks and building materials that would be used to create a roof-like structure for capturing large volumes of rainwater.Project coordinator Johnny Mereka kept the workers on task and while women of the community prepared food to keep up the energy and morale. Now, the plan is create a space under the water-collection roof that will serve as a much-needed “safe house” in times of disaster.“Britano is so happy to get the two water tanks because it’s the first time we have water on site, which is a great help,”says Mereka.Red Cross WASH specialist Richard Tabeva, who worked with the community to realise the water-capture project, says it’s hard toput into words what theproject means to Britano, because water supply was a problem even before the earthquake. “Over so many years, they have never had something like this, so it is good to see,” he said.On to other challengesWith the water tanks installed and a newly built rainwater collection system, Britanocannowfocus onother challenges.The earthquake rendered the village dispensary unusable, meaning children needing treatment need to make the trek to Kawenu School clinic, an hour’s walk away. Red Cross will replace the damaged floor and reinforce it against future disasters.Meanwhile, the Vanuatu Red Cross plans to roll out an emergency cash assistance programme next month. It could not have come at a better time for Britano’s most vulnerable residents, particularly people who lost jobs in town or were badly injured due to the earthquake. The cash will enable them to stock up on essential items and help pay school fees.Reuben and his brother used to make a living selling fish from the bay. After the earthquake, their kayak was stolen. Now his nets hang unused from a tree in the garden and his brother has taken a job picking fruit in Australia.Reluctantly, Reuben is planning to leave his family behind to join him. “We have to find a way to survive,” he says. “All we can do now is support each other.”More than just waterThe Red Cross intervention was about morethanwater. It was also about recognising the experience and suffering of a community thatfelt forgottenby the outside world.It was also about empowering the community to think beyond water and make plans to use the space below the water collection structure as an evacuation area for future disasters.For village leader Chief John, it brings a new sense of hope.“It’s been really hard being the chief of the community at this time,”says Chief John. “The Red Cross were the first ones to come and give us water. It’s the first time someone came here to help us”.“When you see your child cry, you step in to help,”he says. “Red Cross did the same to us and helped wipe away the tears so we could walk into the future.”Learn more about the IFRC’s work in water, sanitation and hygiene:IFRC water, sanitation and hygiene webpageRead more IFRC World Water Day 2025 stories:World Water Day 2025: Angola Red Cross and IFRC bring safe, treated water and hygiene messages to communities hard hit by cholera | IFRCWorld Water Day 2025: From glaciers to the kitchen sink, a story of water and resilience from two mountain villages in Tajikistan | IFRCWorld Water Day 2025: Clean water is about safety, health and so much more | IFRC

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After the storms and floods, Lao Red Cross and IFRC help people reclaim their dreams

Keokaen arrives late to the cash-distribution site in Hart Don Chai village, juggling his two-year-old son, Bounkhorp, in one arm, his family’s registration book and beneficiary card in one hand, while hanging on to a half-empty milk bottle in another.His wife had left before sunrise to forage for rattan shoots, hoping to earn 60,000 Lao kip (2.50 Swiss Francs) from this much-loved forest delicacy. She won’t return until after sundown. At home, Keokaen’s 85-year-old mother, frail from years of illness and unable to walk, isn’t able to care for herself nor her young grandson.“I had to come for the cash assistance today,” Keokaen says. “But I also have to look after my son and hurry home to care for my mother.”Keokaen has been a rice farmer since leaving school after fifth grade, but this year’s storms and floods wiped out nearly half of his rice crop—grain that should have sustained his family for the entire year. His biggest concern now is how to provide for his family.Within minutes of arriving at the cash-distribution, he receives 2 million Lao kip (82 Swiss Francs) and heads home. “First, I will buy milk for him,” Keokaen says, as his son reaches for the bottle. “These days, he goes through a pack a week.”But the small cash grants, he says, are about much more than day-to-day survival. They are a chance to begin investing again in the family’s future. “I want him to go to school – unlike me –become a doctor and take care of me when I get old,” he says, looking down at his son.Lao Red Cross respondsKeokaen is just one among thousands of people who have come to the 47 cash distribution sites set up by the Lao Red Cross across eight provinces in recent months. The small cash grants – provided via the IFRC’s Disaster Response Emergency Fund (IFRC-DREF) – support families affected by widespread destruction from floods that took place between July and September 2024. During that time, a series of tropical storms – including Typhoon Prapiroon and Typhoon Yagi – struck Lao PDR, triggering severe floods and landslides in nearly all provinces. The disaster damaged infrastructure, homes, and agricultural land, leading to significant losses of crops, grain storage, and livelihoods.In response, the Lao Red Cross immediately deployed emergency rescue teams to evacuate families to safety, while providing clean water to nearly 4,000 people, and distributing food items to over 14,000 people.The rapid response was supported by an IFRC-DREF allocation of CHF 500,000, with which LRC ultimately assisted more than 28,600 people, including roughly 14,800 women, 300 people with disabilities, 5,000 elderly, and 3,900 children under five.‘I represent my family’Also arriving at the distribution side is Thonglien, whose family has been working in the forest since the night before, collecting wild sugar palm fruit to sell at 15,000 Lao kip (.60 Swiss Francs) per kilogram.How much they earn depends entirely on how much they can carry out of the jungle. Nearly all their rice fields have been destroyed, leaving them scrambling for what little they can earn.Born with a mobility impairment, Thonglien does not usually venture far from home. He looks after the house while the rest of the family forages into the forest. But this day is different. With everyone else unable to come, Thonglien is the only one able to attend the cash distribution—an opportunity to support his family in a meaningful way.“I will buy some rice for the family,” Thonglien says, glancing at the wooden crutches he made himself. “But also ... I’ll use some to buy parts to make myself new crutches. These ones are worn out.”It was these very crutches that had helped Thonglien escape to higher ground when the floodwaters came. As he stands waiting at the cash-distribution site, he says his real satisfaction lies in the fact that he is actively contributing to his family’s well-being and dignity.“Today, I represent my family,” he said, his voice full of emotion.A chance to rebuildUnlike most people affected by the floods, Air’s rice field is up in the hills. It was untouched by the floods. But while her rice field survived, her home did not.The flood swept away Air’s home, still in the making, along the Nam Tha River. Fifty wooden planks, bought with the family’s 13-million-Lao-kip savings are now gone.“My plates, spoons—everything was scattered everywhere,”she says. “I didn’t care. I swam for three days and nights, searching for those wooden planks.”The rebuilding project had already strained their finances. Her husband, once strong, can no longer walk after an accident in the rice field so survival depends on her alone. Now, with their home investment washed away, Air has been facing an impossible choice: shelter or education.At the cash distribution site, she feels a moment of relief. With the money, she will buy the essentials – rice, salt – as well as school supplies: uniforms, books, pens.The 2 million Lao kip (81 Swiss francs) in multi-purpose cash assistance means her four children can continue attending school.She thinks about their flooded motorcycle and the repair costs looming. They will have to wait.“This is for my children,” she whispers.By Kovit PholsenaIFRC communications officer, Bangkok

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Philippines: Despite their own losses, volunteers kept showing up to help others

When six typhoons roared through the Philippines late last year, it was the Philippine Red Cross volunteers who showed up time and time again. Typhoon Kristine was the first to arrive, pounding communities with months of rainfall in just two days, triggering catastrophic landslides and submerging entire neighbourhoods.Barely had the storm passed when another hit, and then another. Typhoons Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito (all in local names) struck within days of each other, wiping out homes, possessions, and livelihoods.And as soon as there was access, Philippine Red Cross volunteers sprang into action. Equipped with boats and ropes, they started search and rescue efforts, pulling people to safety. Then, as people headed to evacuation centres, they served hot meals, provided clean water, conducted health checks, and offered psychosocial support to those overwhelmed by their losses.Many of the local volunteers and their families were themselves affected by the destruction, and after days and weeks of response, the level of exhaustion was beyond what anyone expected. And yet, they kept turning up day after day for their shifts.Ready to actOne of those volunteers was James Bryan Asma, a 22-year-old nursing student from Naga City. When Typhoon Kristine struck, James and fellow volunteers were already at the Camarines Sur chapter office, monitoring the weather.“It was raining. But we thought, ‘It's just rain, we are used to it,’ ” he recalls. “But it didn't stop.”When floodwaters rose to dangerous levels, James joined rescue missions around the town.“The highlight was saving a two-month-old baby,” he shares. “A grandmother approached us, desperate for help for her child and grandchild. We navigated through floodwaters to reach their home. To escape, the family climbed out of a small window and onto the roof, where we brought them to safety on our boat.”The rescue operations took days as floodwaters did not recede. Later on, James continued to support people at evacuation centres with information on how to stay safe from diseases and infections.Turning up every day, despite his own exhaustion, came at a cost for James. His family’s house and his university dorm were flooded, leaving him with a lingering sense of guilt for not being able to do more for his loved ones and friends. Fatigue hit hard, too.“I saw it in myself, and also in my co-volunteers that they are very exhausted. Our routine of operations every day, traveling far with barely any sleep —it's very tiring.”Despite the physical toll, James found joy in the gratitude of the people they helped. “Seeing their faces light up and hearing their thanks motivates me,” he said. “It uplifts their dignity and reminds me why I volunteer.”Providing health care around the clock For Leonard Ivan Barilla, a 38-year-old nurse and veteran Red Cross volunteer, Typhoon Kristine was a call to action. Week after week, he turned up everyday at the evacuation centre to help with health checks and hygiene promotion, only to head home for a few short hours sleep before his night shift at the hospital.“I only slept for four hours before going to the field,” Leonard explains. “My shift with the Red Cross was from 8 am to 5 pm. And then my work in the hospital was from 11 pm until 7 am in the morning. I did this schedule for one month during the height of the response for Typhoon Kristine.”“I checked vital signs, treated fungal infections and wounds, and provided medicine for high blood pressure, fever, and other ailments. Many seniors had lost their prescriptions, so we brought medicines to them from the provincial health office.”Leonard also focused on hygiene promotion to prevent diseases in the evacuation centres. “We taught people about handwashing, provided hygiene kits with soap, toothpaste, and towels, and distributed disinfectants,” he said. “We even implemented measures to prevent dengue by cleaning stagnant water and fogging affected areas.”Leonard’s dedication extended beyond medical care. “Every day, we travelled to remote areas, sometimes seeing 20 to 30 people,” he shared. “I always asked, ‘What do you need?’ before giving medicine. It wasn’t just about treatment—it was about understanding and addressing their root problems.”Despite the challenges and exhaustion after weeks of response, both volunteers expressed unwavering dedication. “We’ve built a family among the volunteers,” James explained. “It’s what keeps us going, even when we’re exhausted.”For both volunteers, their experiences underscore the transformative power of volunteerism. “This was my first time being deployed in a typhoon,” James said. “It showed me the depth of the Red Cross community and its commitment to helping people—not for politics or show, but to truly make a difference.”

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Press release

Vanuatu earthquake: A nation in crisis highlights urgent need for community-based preparedness

Suva / Kuala Lumpur / Geneva, 20 December – The island country of Vanuatu is reeling from the devastating impact of a 7.4 magnitude earthquake that has claimed at least 10 lives, left over 200 injured, and caused widespread destruction across Efate Island, including the capital, Port Vila. This disaster, compounded by aftershocks and resulting landslides, is a stark reminder of the growing vulnerabilities faced by Pacific nations in the face of natural and climate-induced hazards.The earthquake has destroyed homes, schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure. With communication lines and internet connectivity disrupted, response efforts have been severely hampered. Families are struggling to access safe drinking water, food, and medical care as the government and humanitarian agencies mobilise to address immediate needs.The Vanuatu Red Cross Society (VRCS), supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), is working tirelessly to assist affected communities despite operational challenges, including damage to its own facilities.“The devastating impact of this earthquake is compounded by Vanuatu’s constant battle with natural hazards. We need to go beyond response—we need sustained investments in preparedness, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure,” said Dickinson Tevi, Secretary General of the Vanuatu Red Cross Society.The crisis in Vanuatu emphasises the need for increased support for disaster preparedness and resilience programmes. Many Pacific countries like Vanuatu face recurring disasters that erode development gains and strain response capacities. While global discussions continue on addressing vulnerabilities in disaster-prone regions, it is essential to prioritise investments in community-based response mechanisms - such as disaster-resistant housing and strengthened early warning systems. This investment is critical to saving lives and reducing the overall costs of humanitarian response."An earthquake of this magnitude means that the needs will be huge. IFRC is ready to provide support as we anticipate that the needs will be scaled up in the days and weeks ahead. We are working closely with the team at Vanuatu Red Cross Society to ascertain the needs on the ground and how best we can provide support in a timely and safe manner,” said Katie Greenwood, IFRC’s Head of Delegation for the Pacific.Vanuatu’s Urgent Humanitarian NeedsThe immediate priorities in Vanuatu include:Search and rescue operations to save lives.Restoring communication and transportation infrastructure.Providing emergency medical care, safe drinking water, and temporary shelters.Supporting families to rebuild in a way that minimises future disaster risks.Vanuatu’s resilience is tested time and again, yet its communities continue to demonstrate remarkable strength. The international community must now act decisively to support both the immediate response, and the long-term preparedness needed to reduce the risks of future disasters. Preparedness is not a luxury; it is a life-saving investment. By acting now, we can prevent future crises and build a safer, more sustainable future for vulnerable nations like Vanuatu.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Suva:  Soneel Ram, +679 998 3688 In Kuala Lumpur:  Afrhill Rances, +6019 271 3641 In Geneva: Hannah Copeland, +41 76 236 9109

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Afghanistan: One year after devastating quakes in 2023, residents get keys to a new life

It was a celebration of resilience and the possibility of a new life. In early November 2024, people in the Gulran and Zinda Jan districts of Herat, Afghanistan, gathered to mark the completion of 288 newly built homes.The new dwellings were constructed by the Afghan Red Crescent, the IFRC and other local partners for people who lost their homes due to a devastating series of quakes that hit the region in October 2023.Attended by staff members of the IFRC, the Afghan Red Crescent, the provincial governor of Herat, and local media, the event also acknowledged the resilience of families who faced so much devastation after the earthquake – some losing many family members.After receiving the keys to their new homes, the families began the process of moving in.“We are so happy to have a new home,” said Fahima, a 45-year-old woman whose family now has a safe place to live. “We have been staying in tents, but now we have proper shelter.”“When the earthquake wiped away our house and belongings, we lost everything,”she added. “We struggled to find food to survive, and our children had to sleep in tents. We are eight family members, and now, with this home, our lives are so much better compared to what we endured before the earthquake.” ‘Terrifying nights’Gulalai (not her real name), from Shakar Ab village in the Gulran District, says the new shelter offers her family a chance to start again."We are a family of 11," she shared, recalling the chaotic moments during the quake. “When the earthquake struck, we fled our home and sought refuge outdoors. We faced terrifying nights in makeshift accommodations, terrified for our safety. At least now we have a proper home just nearby, and I can say with certainty that we are going to start a new life in our new home.”Before getting access to her new home, she and her three children resorted to huddling together under a tattered blanket. The weight of fear and helplessness as they struggled to endure the cold nights without shelter or security still plagues her.The 40-year-old mother's home in Zinda Jan was reduced to ruins by a disaster that left its mark across four provinces, claiming over 2,000 lives and ravaging 382 villages in ten districts.In the wake of the disaster, the IFRC developed a comprehensive shelter strategy in which support was provided through conditional cash grants, with people from the affected communities carrying out the construction work. They were aided by masons, volunteers, social mobilisers, and engineers from ARCS and IFRC.Religious scholars and key community members were also included in many stages of the planning and execution.“It took about seven months, and the shelter work was completed,” says Hafiz Sadat, an IFRC Senior Shelter Officer who managed the project and provided technical support to the ARCS team.‘It was catastrophic’Ghulam Mahboob, a 45-year-old resident of Shakar Ab village, reflects on the devastation caused by the earthquake."It was catastrophic; many people lost their lives and their homes," he says. "We had no choice but to live for a very long time in the tent provided by the ARCS. Well, our shelters are finally ready, and we are very grateful to ARCS and everyone who helped address our most pressing needs. We still face urgent challenges in other areas, such as access to electricity, clean drinking water, and education for our children."At the onset of the earthquake, the IFRC shelter, and disaster response teams were deployed to the impacted areas and, in collaboration with the ARCS, emergency items, cash, psychosocial support were delivered to the affected families.While medical care, psychosocial support, water and sanitation were the most immediate needs, there were other needs as many of the people who kept family and community life going lost their lives during the quake.“Both my sons have lost their wives in the earthquake,”said one elderly man. “Not only is there is no one to help make bread for the family, but there is no cooking and heating equipment as well. My sons and I must go outside of the village to earn a living.”Even with the new homes, therefore, the families still face many challenges ahead. For this reason, the IFRC and ARCS continue their commitment to accompany the impacted families in their path to recovery.That support has been consistent since the beginning. With support from the IFRC, the ARCS has reached 2,100 households with emergency shelters and household items such as tents or tarpaulins, blankets, jerry cans, kitchen sets and sleeping pads. Overall, the ARCS provided a wide range of assistance to more than 87,000 people.Much of this support was made possible by resources mobilized through a comprehensive IFRC Emergency Appeal that addressed the impacts of multiple shocks, including severe drought, flooding, public health emergencies, economic hardship and the Herat earthquakes. See a more detailed description of the appeal and response operations here.Text by IFRC senior communications officers Sayed Eshaq Muqbel and Rachel Punitha

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Season of the floods: The Philippines Red Cross responds to the floodwaters that never went away

The floodwaters came, but they never left. In the region around Bulacan, a provincial area in Luzon, in northern Philippines, many communities have been literally knee-deep in water for more than three months plus now.Water that overflowed the banks of a river that surged in July, has remained, covering the landscape in a shallow pool ever since.“We got used to the flood waters stagnating in our homes,” saysMeldrid Liodel, a 53-year-old single mother. “We have tried not to get stressed about it. It is very difficult to stand up [due to the water], especially the cleaning, the cleaningof our homes [is difficult].”“I have six children and seven grandchildren.If you ask why we do not just move away, this is where we were born, we grew up, we made families, and we continue to fight for our lives.”Meldrid, as well as all her neighbours and communities, are learning to live their daily lives in shin-deep water. They get around in narrow canoes and many received boats from the local government to help with their daily commutes.The gardening they do for daily sustenance has also changed radically. They’ve started planting vegetables that grow well on water, and they began open air-drying fish that they catch from their rooftops. The fish and vegetables they use to earn a small income and feed their families.“These floods here started happening way back when Mount Pinatubo erupted many years ago,”Meldrid adds.“Before this, we had crops, we had a lot of rice fields, the farmers could farm, the fishermen could fish well.”Mount Pinatubo is just more than 90 kilometers from Bulacan, Central Luzon, where Meldrid’s community lives. Many years after the eruption, they realised that the entire local irrigation network, as well as the water channels and infrastructure in the surrounding regions, had been damaged by the volcano. Ever since, thousands of communities were suffering from continuous floods that would never subside.The floods are a result of a combination of back flooding, high-tide, and water brought in from storms and typhoons. This has occurred more frequently in the past decade.Just the beginningYet, this is not the full story. The Philippines sits one of the most disaster-prone zones in the world. Yearly, the country experiences multiple typhoons, floods, volcanic activity, and even earthquakes.By late November 2024, a total of six typhoons had pounded the Philippines back-to-back in various regions, dumping onto its land copious amounts of rushing water and causing widespread destruction. While international aid is vital for humanitarian purposes, it is not immediate, and affected people are in dire need of help the very hour the disaster hits.The storms only intensified the already chronic flooding problem. “Typhoon Carina was very strong, and it was sudden,”says Amelia Torres, who stands with her husband in their living room, which has been carpeted in to two feet of water since July 2024. “It suddenly intensified and didn’t go away and it didn't stop. The floods didn't subside.”All their belongings are hanging on the walls, dangling from the ceiling, or are perched on top of shelves and tables. Their bed and mattress are in the living room, about one foot above the water. “Sometimes, it's only dry for just 3 months of the year,” she adds.Rapid response fund to the rescueThis is where the IFRC DREF – Disaster Response Emergency Fund has been such a critical asset. This fund delivers financial support directly to local humanitarian actors—both before a crisis is expected to hit and after. These funds go directly to National Societies, and they are those that are very embedded in local communities.In the case of recent storms, the funds enabled the Philippine Red Cross to galvanize their response to quickly reach people while further funds are being procured globally. They were able to prepare evacuation centres,deploy evacuation teams, and quickly get hot meals, essential items, hygiene kits and more to the people.The IFRC-DREF mechanism was originally designed to respond to small- and medium-sized disasters, but it has evolved to include support for anticipatory action. By acting before disasters strike, IFRC aims for it to enable the saving of more lives and livelihoods and minimizing the devastating impacts.The Philippines have been a recipient of IFRC-DREF three times for the year 2024, and the Philippine Red Cross, along with the IFRC and partners, have been helping with relief, evacuation, hot meals, medical aid, and much more.That support is critical to people like Edgardo Sibbaluca, a construction worker in Rizal, another province in Central Luzon. His family of six experienced the full force of Super Typhoon Carina that hit in July this year.“We couldn’t save anything; we lost all our belongings,”he says. “We had to evacuate. We are now sleeping in the evacuation centre. Food is being brought to us, and that’s what we’re relying on. Fortunately, it occurred in the morning. If it had happened at night, many would have died.I felt weak; all I could see were piles of trash. I felt very weak. “But I’m thankful that at least our lives were spared. I’ll rebuild my house and fix my surroundings. I’ll plant again and go back to work. I’ll restore everything to how it was so I can get back on my feet.”“I feel like we have to be cautious now,”added Edgardo, who expressed gratitude for the support he received from the Red Cross. “We need to be prepared for disasters because we might have to evacuate again.I’m afraid of strong disasters that come suddenly.I want us to be strong and brave, to face challenges without fear and to be prepared.”By Rachel Punitha, IFRC Senior Communications Officer, Asia Pacific

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Press release

Early warning systems only way to begin tackling unprecedented number of Philippines typhoons

Manila/ Kuala Lumpur/ Geneva, 18 November:Six tropical typhoons have hit the Philippines in a month in an unprecedented pattern of extreme weather, not seen since records in the Pacific basin began in 1951. While the overall impact caused by the latest Super Typhoon Man-Yi (local name Pepito) is still being assessed, the previous five typhoons - Trami (Kristine), Kong-Rey (Leon), Yin-Xing (Marce), Toraji (Nika) and Usagi (Ofel) - have already caused extensive destruction across the region, bringing torrential rains, landslides, widespread flooding and damage to infrastructure and livelihoods, stretching local resources to their maximum. Over 1.4 million displaced people have faced limited access to water, sanitation, nutrition and health care. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is urgently appealing for more aid, increasing its initialEmergency Appeal for 7.5 million Swiss Francs, launched for Typhoon Trami, to 9 million Swiss Francs with the aim of enabling the Philippine Red Cross to widen its scope of assistance to over 86,000 people in the 12 most impacted provinces by allsix typhoons.Dr. Gwendolyn Pang, Secretary General of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), said: “While providing lifesaving support, we have initiated early actions to help at-risk communities to reduce damage. But no one can be well prepared for such an unprecedented number of storms in this short span of time. We need help to reduce the humanitarian impacts of these typhoons.” She also pointed out that the PRC has been responding to disasters from the beginning, alongside local authorities, to meet the immediate needs of the most vulnerable communities.Gopal Mukherjee, Programme Coordinator and IFRC Acting Head of Delegation for the Philippines highlighted the urgent need for more aid as local resources are stretched thin, including that of the Philippine Red Cross:“Already the recovery of impacted communities is interrupted by these typhoons and their compounding effects. The humanitarian situation is worsening as Super Typhoon Man-Yi is making its impact,” he added.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Kuala Lumpur: Lili Chin: +60 162340872In Geneva: Hannah Copeland, +41 76 236 91 09

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Podcast

New IFRC Youth Commission leader: Young volunteers want real influence, not ‘box-checking’ exercises

Young people do not fit into “cookie-cutter” stereotypes, says Michelle Chew, IFRC’s newly elected Youth Commission Chair. “Young people are very diverse and only by valuing and accepting all forms of young people can we engage communities properly.” While young people are gaining influence, she says efforts to engage with youth can seem like “box-checking exercises” that end up turning young people away. As someone with experience as a front-line volunteer with Malaysian Red Crescent ambulance crews, she says she’ll do her best to ensure the voices of young, community-based first responders are represented in the strategies, plans and decisions made by IFRC’s Governing Board.

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Article

Season of floods: Youth in Fiji help their communities prevent the damage caused by climate change

“Strange,” Seru says tersely.“The weather that we are supposed to be experiencing at this time of the year should be dry and sunny instead it is wet and cold.”Seru Ramakita, 61, was born and raised in the village of Navuevu – a two-hour drive from Suva, the capital city of Fiji.“As a result of the continuous rain, we are now experiencing flooding. This is the first time in 50 years that the village has experienced flooding.”Home to over 300 hundred people, Navuevu village is grappling with one of the many challenges of life with climate change.As Seru looks out over the water, the midday sun is blanketed by dark clouds as a slight ray of sunshines peeks through a cleft in the clouds. The rustle of the coconut leaves brings back memories, some familiar, some new.“Even during past cyclones, we did not experience flooding,” he says. “The flooding has affected our root crops.”The crops ended up getting submerged in water hence affected their growth. “Now we have no choice but to move our farm to higher ground”, Seru says“As a result of the saltwater inundation due to the flooding, our root crops such as cassava are not able to grow properly, and all our hard work has gone to waste.”In this series, we explore how communities are working to reduce the risks of weather-related crises even even as they are busy helping people recover from the last devastating disaster.Robin Kaiwalu, 33, is a Fiji Red Cross youth volunteer who also resides in Navuevu village, has been affected by the recent floods.“The flooding reached up to my knee and my whole plantation was under water.”“All my crops are damaged including plantain, cassava, taro. Not only do we depend on this for food, but we also sell it as a source of income."Before joining the Y-Adapt program, Robin was an unemployed youth who focused on his family and hobbies like rugby. When he joined the Y-Adapt program, he realized there was a lot to learn through the Fiji Red Cross programs, which motivated him to become a volunteer. He has been volunteering for five months now.WHAT IS Y-ADAPTY-Adapt is a youth-based training program designed to educate, engage and inspire young people to take action and become climate change leaders in their communities. It also builds climate resilience through increased technical understanding and planning skills to take climate action.Over 60 youths have participated in the Y-Adapt program. About 70 per cent of them were unemployed or had dropped out of school. However, some are now pursuing vocational studies, while others have found employment in hotels or are seeking jobs.Through collective action and collaboration, the youth can leverage their diverse ideas, skills, and perspectives to tackle climate change challenges effectively.Fiji Red Cross Society, with support from Japanese Red Cross and IFRC, has been able to train the youth volunteers in Navuevu and equip them with knowledge, skills and resources to address the issue of flooding in the village.In the village, any activity must be approved at a village meeting before proceeding. The youths consulted the village headman to help present their action plan at the meeting, where it was subsequently approved.To ensure active participation, the youths organized a garbage drive along their coastal area and within the village. The drive saw a good turnout, including stakeholders like hotels, the police, the Provincial Council, Disability Associations, and villagers, resulting in the collection of over 150 kg of rubbish.Since most youths were unemployed and needed bus fare and funding for necessary documentation, the village collectively agreed to cover these expenses to support the youth group's initiatives.The village was pleased to see the youths working together to achieve their goals.“After consultations with the village head and the elders, we decided that we came to the conclusion that we needed to construct rubbish bins to help with proper disposal of rubbish,” says Robin.Buying a large bin to accommodate the village's population is very expensive for the youths and involves a lengthy process through the Town Council and Provincial Office before it can be installed in the village. The youths were encouraged to keep their activities low-cost, achievable, and within a set timeframe, so they decided to construct their own bin.“This way the rubbish would not block the drains and the next time it rains; the water will not overflow into the village,” says Robin.“We are very grateful and appreciative to Fiji Red Cross for implementing this program in our village,” says Seru.The tremendous support of the community members, particularly the families of the youth participants, has been instrumental in driving the success of the Y Adapt program in Navuevu.The encouragement and backing received from within the village highlight the value placed on youth-led initiatives that aim to address local environmental challenges and contribute to community well-being.“It is very heartening to see our youths, the future leaders of tomorrow, taking the lead in helping their very own communities with such initiatives," says Seru.“The Y-Adapt Program stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the fight against climate change, demonstrating the power of youth empowerment and collective action in creating sustainable and resilient communities,” says Robin.“For now, we will continue to plant our crops on higher grounds and another goal is to set up an evacuation centre for the village so that when it floods the next time, families are able to seek shelter at this centre.”Text bySoneel Ram (IFRC) with editing by Rachel Punitha (IFRC) | Photos: Kurt Petersen (Petersen Fotography) and Fiji Red Cross Society.

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Press release

IFRC calls for local level investment to scale up early warning systems in disaster response

Manila, Philippines – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, disaster risk reduction practitioners, governments, civil society and other international organisations met in Manila last week at the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024. The event brought together these key stakeholders to share knowledge and accelerate action towards a resilient global future.This year’s theme, ‘Eyes on 2030: Enhancing Ambition in Asia-Pacific to Accelerate Disaster Risk Reduction’, strongly aligns with IFRC’s long-standing commitment to improving disaster preparedness and community resilience across the region.In collaboration with the IFRC, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) also aims to showcase the power of locally-led action and anticipatory approaches, emphasising the importance of inclusive and sustainable solutions to reduce disaster risks. As the Asia-Pacific area remains one of the most disaster-prone regions in the world, the participation of the Red Cross Red Crescent (RCRC) Movement at APMCDRR is crucial to driving forward local initiatives that build safer, more resilient communities.The IFRC, which serves as a global leader in disaster risk reduction and humanitarian response, supports PRC and 37 other National Societies in Asia Pacific in promoting community resilience, disaster law, early warning systems, and gender-responsive disaster governance. The IFRC will advocate for stronger policies that integrate DRR into national and local development plans and sustainable financing mechanisms ensuring that women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities are at the heart of these efforts.During the event, the Secretary General of Maldivian Red Crescent, Fathimath Himya, was announced as one of the finalists for the Women’s International Network for Disaster Risk Reduction (WIN DRR) Excellence Award. Nominees are celebrated for their exceptional professional success in disaster risk reduction, representing the expertise and experiences needed to find solutions to understanding, preventing, and reducing the increasing disaster risk in the most disaster-prone region of the world. Throughout the conference, under the fourth pillar of the Early Warning For All initiative by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, the IFRC co-leads discussions and shares best practice in DRR, focusing on anticipatory action together with the World Meteorological Organisation and International Telecommunication Union.In addition to its contribution to DRR policy discussions, the IFRC leverages the APMCDRR as an opportunity to reinforce partnerships with governments, donors and other stakeholders, with the goal of increasing funding for locally-led disaster resilience programmes. The IFRC also co-hosted a series of side events focusing on anticipatory action and the role of women in leadership in disaster risk reduction.Looking Ahead: APMCDRR and the Road to GenevaThe outcomes of APMCDRR 2024 will feed into broader global efforts to enhance disaster risk reduction. The commitments made in Manila will be vital in shaping discussions at the upcoming Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, which will take place in Geneva in June 2025. The Geneva conference will build on the outcomes of regional platforms like APMCDRR, further aligning them with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Juja Kim, Deputy Regional Director for the IFRC who was also in Manila, said:"The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather and climate events poses severe humanitarian challenges that are already affecting millions of lives and livelihoods around the world. What we achieve at APMCDRR will resonate globally, including at the International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent in Geneva at the end of October, where we, together with States, are set to pass important resolutions regarding locally-led action, disaster law, and anticipatory action addressing extreme climate and weather events. Anticipatory action saves lives and livelihoods and massively reduces the need for post-disaster reaction. Some estimates suggest that 95% of people who might otherwise need post-disaster humanitarian aid would not need it if the right anticipatory action is taken in advance. So together, we must ensure that disaster risk reduction is fully integrated into every level of policy and planning.”About APMCDRR 2024Hosted by the Government of the Philippines in partnership with the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) is the region’s largest gathering on disaster risk reduction. The event aims to review DRR efforts, share innovative solutions, and commit to accelerated action toward reducing disaster risk in the world’s most disaster-prone region.For media inquiries please contact: [email protected] Manila/Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Frances, IFRC Regional Communications Manager, +60 19 271 3641

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Article

IFRC and Asian Disaster Preparedness Center strengthen partnership to boost disaster resilience across Asia

Manila, Philippines, October 2024 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) have reaffirmed their long-standing commitment to enhancing disaster resilience across Asia by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).This partnership marks a significant milestone, building on over four decades of collaboration to safeguard vulnerable communities from the increasing threat of disasters in the region.The MoU was signed during the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024, underscoring the urgency of addressing complex and frequent disasters that continue to impact the region.The renewed partnership aims to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts, with a particular focus on capacity building, community-based disaster risk management, and advancing innovative solutions for early warning systems.Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Hans Guttman, Executive Director of ADPC, expressed his gratitude to IFRC for their unwavering support. “Together, we can harness our resources, expertise, and passion to create a more prepared and resilient future. This partnership will empower us to enhance our response capabilities, share best practices, and ultimately save lives,” Guttman emphasized.The IFRC’s longstanding tradition of volunteerism has played a critical role in disaster preparedness and response efforts, mobilizing thousands of volunteers across Asia to provide lifesaving assistance in times of crisis. The new MoU reinforces this tradition by promoting community resilience and empowering local actors to take the lead in safeguarding their communities.“This partnership with ADPC is a continuation of our shared mission to support local and national disaster preparedness capacities. By working together,we can ensure that communities are better equipped to face new climate risks,” said Juja Kim, IFRC’s Deputy Regional Director for Asia Pacific, at the ceremony.The collaboration between IFRC and ADPC has a rich history, dating back to the late 1980s. Over the years, the two organizations have worked hand-in-hand to support National Societies and governments across South and Southeast Asia. Their efforts have contributed to the development of technical tools for community-based disaster risk management, multi-hazard early warning systems, and collaborative initiatives to reduce the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations.As part of their continued partnership, IFRC and ADPC will focus on several key areas, including the strengthening of disaster management networks, enhancing research and knowledge-sharing, and supporting the institutional capacities of national disaster management organizations (NDMOs) and Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The MoU also aligns with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, ensuring that the partnership contributes to global goals of reducing disaster risk and building resilience.The signing of this MoU represents a pivotal step toward a safer and more resilient Asia. As the region continues to face the escalating risks of natural hazards, the collaboration between IFRC and ADPC will serve as a crucial foundation for enhancing preparedness and protecting communities at risk.

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Press release

Afghanistan: Child malnutrition amidst economic hardship and climate disasters

Kabul/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva – Mobile health teams and fixed clinics run by the Afghan Red Crescent Society are recording alarming cases of acute malnutrition in children, especially in areas where communities are concurrently facing household economic instability, in addition to bearing the brunt of climate-related disasters and the effects of a decades-long conflict.Data from ARCS health facilities and anecdotal accounts shared by Red Crescent frontliner staff and volunteers underline the calls made by other humanitarian agencies, including UNICEF and Save the Children, that funding support is critical to saving the lives of thousands of children. Estimates provided in the beginning of the year indicated that some 2.9 million children aged under five could suffer from acute malnutrition in 2024.Dr. Mohammad Nabi Burhan, Secretary General of the ARCS, says: “The scale of malnutrition in our country is staggering, based on the numbers our mobile health teams and fixed clinics are registering. Severe acute malnutrition can be fatal if left untreated so it is imperative that we take urgent action to save as many lives as we can.”As part of their routine services, ARCS mobile health teams and fixed clinics undertake malnutrition screening, distribute ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF), provide education to communities on how to prevent malnutrition, and refer severe cases for treatment by specialised agencies or in better-equipped hospitals.“Our frontline workers are telling us that dozens of children are not getting timely treatment because our Movement partners have not received sufficient funding to scale up services. This cruel reality leaves three unfortunate options for children who are at most risk: stunted growth, wastage, or death. We must do our best, collectively, to ensure better options for our children,” adds Dr. Mohammad Nabi Burhan.The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is releasing 500,000 Swiss francs from its Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF) to contribute to urgent life-saving interventions by ARCS.Necephor Mghendi, Head of IFRC Afghanistan Delegation, who visited some of the ARCS mobile health teams and fixed clinics in Kandahar two weeks ago, says: “Within the span of an hour I spent with Red Crescent frontliners operating a mobile health team in the Panjwayi district of Kandahar, two out of five children screened had severe acute malnutrition. Parents of these children said they lacked adequate income to obtain food, had already sold assets to survive, and that humanitarian assistance was their last resort.”“Malnutrition in early childhood could lead to long-term physical or cognitive disability. We need to prevent these lasting impacts on children we are able to assist, together with the ARCS,” Necephor Mghendi adds.The IFRC and ARCS are also rolling out programmes aimed at enhancing the capacity of communities and preparing them to withstand future difficulties, such as climate shocks like drought and harsh winters.Dr. Mohammad Nabi Burhan, Secretary General of the ARCS, says: “Even as we support affected children to receive urgent treatment, we must provide durable solutions in a manner that also tackles root-causes and vulnerabilities. These communities have faced head-on crises one after another, yet with sustained multisector support we can support them to become self-reliant and more resilient.”Longer-term ARCS programmes integrate primary and community health services, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, livelihood assistance, disaster preparedness, disaster risk reduction measures, support for widows, and climate change adaptation, among others.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Afghanistan: Sayed Eshaq Muqbel +93 707 336 040In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances +60 19 271 3641In Geneva: Hannah Copeland +41 76 236 9109

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Press release

Super Typhoon Yagi causes severe flooding across Southeast Asia

Bangkok/Yangon/Kuala Lumpur 17 September 2024 – Super Typhoon Yagi, one of the strongest typhoons to hit Southeast Asia in decades, has left a trail of destruction in multiple countries, with severe flooding, landslides, and widespread infrastructural damage. The typhoon affected the Philippines, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar, triggering both immediate humanitarian responses and long-term recovery efforts. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in collaboration with local Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, is mobilising resources to assist those in need.Regional impact of Typhoon YagiSuper Typhoon Yagi initially made landfall in the Philippines on 2 September. Locally known as Typhoon Enteng, it resulted in landslides and flooding, killing 21 people in its wake, prompting school and office closures and disrupting power and telecommunication services.Three days later, it traversed through southern China before landing in Vietnam on 7 September. Typhoon Yagi caused massive destruction in Vietnam’s Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong city. With continuous heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides affecting 26 provinces, including the capital city of Hanoi, the typhoon left 344 people reported dead or missing. Over 235,000 homes were damaged, and the economic impact is so far estimated at USD 1.6 billion.The Vietnam Red Cross Society (VNRC) has been on the front lines, distributing emergency relief items, food, and cash assistance. The IFRC is launching a CHF 4 million emergency appeal to aid recovery efforts in the worst-affected areas, focusing on shelter restoration, health services, and livelihood recovery​.Myanmar also faced unprecedented flooding starting on September 8, as the remnants of Typhoon Yagi triggered heavy rains, displacing over 320,000 people and causing 113 reported deaths across nine regions. The Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) has been actively conducting search and rescue operations, providing first aid, and distributing vital supplies such as food, water, blankets, and hygiene items. The IFRC, in collaboration with MRCS, has launched another emergency appeal, aiming to raise 2.5 million CHF to assist 25,000 people over the next 12 months​.While the direct impact of Typhoon Yagi was less severe in the Philippines, and later on in Laos, both countries experienced significant flooding and infrastructural damage. The local Red Cross Societies responded to urgent needs, and both countries are working to mitigate further risks posed by prolonged flooding and landslides.Flooding in Southeast Asia: A Regional CrisisSuper Typhoon Yagi’s impact has caused extensive flooding across Southeast Asia, affecting millions of people. Prolonged rainfall, soil saturation, and the sheer magnitude of the typhoon have exacerbated the already vulnerable situations in many communities. Local Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across the region are responding to immediate needs, while the IFRC is coordinating support for large-scale recovery operations, including emergency shelter, healthcare, and psychosocial support.With emergency appeals being launched in Vietnam and Myanmar, the IFRC is calling for international solidarity to ensure a rapid and effective response to help affected communities rebuild their lives. The IFRC’s Regional Director for Asia Pacific, Alexander Matheou, says:"This year alone, the Asia Pacific region has faced an unrelenting series of climate-related disasters. The devastation caused by Super Typhoon Yagi is just the latest example of the compounding effects of the climate crisis on people who are already in vulnerable situations. From typhoons, floods, and heatwaves to droughts, these crises hit one after another, leaving little room for recovery.“The IFRC and our Red Cross and Red Crescent partners remain committed to providing life-saving assistance and long-term support. As we face this escalating climate emergency, our work is more critical than ever in helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from these frequent and severe disasters."The IFRC is working closely with national authorities and humanitarian partners in the region to coordinate efforts and scale up operations. The immediate focus is on providing life-saving assistance, restoring critical infrastructure, and supporting long-term recovery. Cash assistance, emergency shelters, and health services are among the priority needs as floodwaters continue to rise, threatening food security, sanitation, and public health.For more information or to request an interview, please contact [email protected] Media Inquiries:In Bangkok: Kovit Pholsena | +66 (0) 81 837 8876 In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances | +60 19 271 3641In Geneva: Hannah Copeland | +44 7535316633Visuals: Additional photos and video available here: Viet Nam , Myanmar

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Press release

Millions affected as Super Typhoon Yagi hits Vietnam

Bangkok/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 13 September 2024– Super Typhoon Yagi, one of the strongest storms to hit Vietnam in three decades, has left a trail of destruction and continues to threaten the lives of millions across northern and central parts of the country.After passing through China’s Hainan Island, Tropical Cyclone Yagi intensified into a super typhoon, making landfall in Quang Ninh province and Hai Phong City in Vietnam at 13:45 local time on 7 September 2024.With torrential downpours and powerful winds exceeding 200 kilometres per hour, the super typhoon has forced more than 50,000 people to evacuate their homes. It triggered widespread flooding, flash floods, and landslides, causing severe damage to roads, bridges, and buildings, uprooting trees, and disrupting electrical and telecommunication networks. The affected areas are experiencing prolonged power outages, communication loss, and water supply disruptions.According to authorities, nearly 190,000 homes have been flooded, damaged or destroyed, with at least 325 people reported dead or missing, and an estimated 1.6 million people affected overall. These numbers are expected to rise as damage assessment continues, while the risk of further flooding and landslides remains high throughout the affected regions.Immediately after initial impact of the typhoon, the Vietnam Red Cross Society organised the mobilisation of relief items, such as food, medicine, and cash distribution worth up to VND 5.5 billion (190,000 CHF) to support affected communities. Red Cross staff and volunteers have been deployed to assist with debris cleanup and to provide psychological first aid, and disaster response teams are also continuing to collaborate closely with the authorities to conduct damage and needs assessments in the affected areas.Local Red Crossbranches are implementing measures such as early warning communication, supporting the reinforcement of houses, providing assistance at temporary evacuation and shelter points, and closely monitoring storm updates so they’re on standby for emergency response.Despite having now weakened into a tropical depression, Yagi continues to cause extended periods of heavy rainfall, leading to ongoing flooding and landslides across 26 provinces, including the capital city of Hanoi.Mr. Nguyen Hai Anh, Vice President and Secretary General of the Vietnam Red Cross Society, said:“Nearly 19 million people are living in the affected provinces. We are deeply concerned about their health, well-being, and ability to cope with the impact and consequences of Super Typhoon Yagi, especially those in vulnerable conditions, such as the elderly and children.“The Vietnam Red Cross Society has been working closely with relevant authorities and organisations to support the national and local response efforts. We have launched resource mobilisation campaigns in a spirit of solidarity to support the affected populations in overcoming this deadly tragedy.”Kathryn Clarkson, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Head of Country Cluster Delegation in Bangkok covering Thailand, Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam, said:“This extreme and prolonged weather event is continuing to have a widespread impact on many local communities, including in areas where we have rarely seen this kind of disaster occur previously. People’s resilience is being stretched, and there is an urgent need to provide both immediate relief and recovery support to the affected populations.“IFRC is working closely with the Vietnam Red Cross Society to mobilise international support to address the growing and evolving needs of the affected populations, especially with health services, water and sanitation as well as restoration of shelter and livelihoods.”Note to editors:Visuals: Additional photos and video available here:Dropbox – Viet Nam Typhoon Yagi 2024For more information or to request an interview, please [email protected] Bangkok: Kovit Pholsena, +66 (0) 81 837 8876In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances, +60 19 271 3641In Geneva: Hannah Copeland, +44 7535316633

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Press release

Step up in support needed as massive floods cause destruction in Bangladesh

Dhaka/Kuala Lumpur/GenevaSince mid-June, 14.6 million people in Bangladesh have been affected by severe floods. Homes, belongings and livelihoods have been swept away, and the latest floods from end of August have left more than half a million people displaced. The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and partners, has launched an emergency appeal aimed at relief for those hit by floods in the northern, eastern and southern regions of the country.With the latest flooding due to extreme rainfall in the south and east of Bangladesh since the end of August, districts face the worst flooding situation in more than 30 years. Furthermore, rainfall predictions indicate that Sylhet, Chattogram, Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions may see even more extreme rain during September. A big part of the flooded areas, especially in the south and east, are areas that have not previously been subject to these kinds of floods. Communities are overwhelmed.“The destruction caused by the current floods is immense. BDRCS plays an invaluable role, particularly in reaching people in inaccessible and remote areas. But more support is needed to provide the urgent aid and relief items needed.” said the Head of Delegation of the IFRC country delegation in Bangladesh, Alberto Bocanegra.Prioritizing most affected communitiesThrough the emergency appeal, the BDRCS will focus on the most affected communities, with humanitarian assistance focused on access to water, sanitation and hygiene, shelter, food security, livelihoods and health. The main focus of the relief work is focused on districts of Feni, Noakhali, Cumila and Lakhsmipur.In these districts, assessments have found vast numbers of families with damaged houses, water and sanitation. Livelihoods have been severely impacted particularly in industries like agriculture and fish farming. Those with especially high needs include marginalized groups, and people displaced and living in collective centers, with relatives or in other people’s houses.The AppealAn IFRC emergency appeal for 7.5 million Swiss francs aims to reach 400,000 people, with the BDRCS ensuring the dignity, access, participation, and safety of the most vulnerable populations. This includes elderly people, children and adolescents, marginal-income farmers, female-headed households, pregnant women, widows, and persons with disabilities.“Our volunteers have been on the ground from the day one of each flood, providing critical assistance. But support from our partners and the global community is essential to reach the families affected. We urge the international community to stand with Bangladesh during this critical time,” said Secretary General of the BDRCS, Kabir Md. Ashraf Alam.The BDRCS work closely with communities, local authorities, and community leaders to assist the most affected families. Coordination with other agencies will be maintained to avoid any duplication of efforts.You can see the emergency appeal here.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Dhaka: Camilla Bruun Simonsen, +880 17 0451 4972Al-Shahriar Rupam, +880 17 6177 5075In Kuala Lumpur:Afrhill Rances, +601 9271 3641In GenevaTommaso Della Longa: +41 79 7084367 Andrew Thomas: +41 76 3676587

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Article

‘We will be there for them’: In communities most vulnerable to storms, volunteers rise to the challenge

In the Cox’s Bazar camps of Bangladesh, where cyclones pose a perpetual threat, a remarkable group of individuals emerges as the unsung heroes of disaster preparedness and response.Numbering around 3,300, these Red Cross Red Crescent volunteers serve as the bedrock of community readiness and emergency response within the camp settlement.Dil Mohammed, aged 46, is one of them. "People know we will be there for them if they need us during any disaster," he says.Trained and prepared by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Dil Mohammed and his fellow volunteers play a pivotal role in disseminating cyclone early warning information and facilitating anticipatory actions to reduce the unprecedented loss and damage that cyclones can bring.The cyclone seasons in Bangladesh, spanning from April to May and October to November, are periods of heightened alertness. Since 2018, the volunteers have received training on disaster preparedness and the camp’s early warning system, as well as safety gear and early warning equipment.As cyclone Mocha approached in May 2023, for example, these volunteers sprang into action. Dil Mohammed recalls their swift response: "When cyclone signal 1 was announced, we immediately got the news and started verbal messaging among the people living in my camp. After receiving the cyclone signal 4 announcement, we hoisted 1 cyclone signal flag and disseminated signal information through megaphones across the camp."While male volunteers focused on informing the broader community, their female counterparts played a vital role in raising awareness among the female members of the camp community."We reached out door-to-door, making a tremendous impact in our community, where 52 per cent of the population is female," says Dil Kayas, a female volunteer from camp 8W.Another woman volunteer in Camp 7, Minara sais "the learnings enabled me to support my own community people during their need".Along with other volunteers, Minara helps facilitate block-level awareness sessions, ensuring that even those who were unable to attend large-scale events receive vital cyclone preparedness information.Minara also used her first-aid training to provide immediate assistance to her injured nephew, showcasing the real-world impact of capacity enhancement initiatives within the camps.As the cyclone threat escalated, the volunteers doubled their efforts. Dil Mohammed explains, "When we heard that signal 8 was announced, we hoisted 3 signal flags and started using sirens, megaphones, mosque microphones, and every available communication tool to ensure that every camp resident knew about the impending danger."Recognizing that women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities are the most vulnerable during disasters, the volunteers devised a plan to ensure their safety. They maintained a list of households with “extremely vulnerbale individuals” and once the first flag was hoisted, they visited every such household, offering reassurance and readiness to help.In one instance, a pregnant woman approached the volunteers, expressing concern about her fragile shelter's ability to withstand the cyclone. The volunteers, in coordination with site management, arranged her relocation to a nearby family's shelter, prioritizing her safety and well-being.Dil Kayas and Dil Mohammed continued their efforts, using megaphones to disseminate signal information. They advised community members to secure their shelters and protect important documents in plastic bags.They also highlighted the availability of communal shelters for emergency use. As a result of their messages, the community actively participated in securing their shelters, with women playing a proactive role.After the cyclone's passag, they swiftly transitioned to post-cyclone responsibilities, conducting assessments to measure the extent of the damage in their respective camps and identifying those in need of emergency assistance. They also engaged in the demanding task of clearing roads and paths, ensuring access and communication within the camps.“After the landfall of cyclone Mocha, we started cleaning the roads in the camp blocks,” says Mahabu Alam, a young volunteer from camp 1W. “Trees were uprooted, debris scattered, hindering accessibility."Similar stories unfolding in other settlementsCox’s Bazar is not the only place where people displaced from Myanmar are making a difference in their own communities.In some cases, the volunteers include people whose families came to Bangladesh from Mryanmar in earlier years.Inthe Basan Char settlement, Bangladesh Red Crescent volunteerJafor Alamwheels a bicycle full of tools used for cleaning debris from water canals. If these canals get blocks during heavy rains, the result can be sudden flooding.Volunteers like Nur Hossain, meanwhile, play an important role in ensuring the maintenance and functionality of essential shelter infrastructure. An experienced foreman, Hossain has worked in various places in Chittagong, one the country’s largest cities.In addition to maintaining shelters, to ensure their strength and safety, he organizes awareness sessions, and resolves issues that arise at the community level under the guidance of the BDRCS team.Many also have considerable expertise in their fields.Abdul Hamid, who lives with his wife and children in Bhasan Char,joined the BDRCS Bhasan Char Operation as a Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) volunteer in 2021.Due to his technical expertise and his experience with biogas initiatives, he became site-management support volunteer responsible for maintaining biogas services in Bhasan Char.In this way, Abdul Hamid plays an important role in ensuring the maintenance and functionality of essential biogas infrastructure, contributing significantly to his community's sustainability efforts.Through their actions, all these volunteers not only protect their fellow residents but also empower their communities to face cyclones and associated hazards with resilience and readiness.Story by Farhan Arafin KarimPhotos: Humayra TasnimWith editing by Al-Shahriar Rupam and Rachel Punitha

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