Alexander Matheou

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Article

IFRC calls for stronger regional solidarity as humanitarian needs continue to rise in Asia Pacific

Kuala Lumpur, 29 January 2026: As we conclude our Annual Regional Strategic Coordination Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, one message is unmistakably clear: solidarity across our Red Cross and Red Crescent network has never been more vital. Asia Pacific is the most disaster-affected region in the world. Communities across the region are facing more frequent and severe floods, cyclones and heatwaves, rising displacement, and overlapping vulnerabilities. At the same time, humanitarian needs are growing while funding continues to shrink. This widening gap between needs and resources is placing unprecedented pressure on local responders and the communities they serve.Over the past three days, Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies came together to reflect on these realities and look ahead. We discussed regional risks, emerging humanitarian needs, and shared priorities for the year to come. We examined how local Red Cross Red Crescent Societies can better prepare and respond to disasters, how the climate crisis impacts are reshaping humanitarian action, and how Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies are increasingly leading responses both at home and in support of sister organisations in other countries.What emerged clearly from these discussions was a shared understanding that no single organisation can meet today’s humanitarian challenges alone: National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies must deepen cooperation within our own global network, while also working closely with like-minded partners. Solidarity: practical, operational, and financial, is the foundation of our collective strength. Helping your neighbours is not humanitarianism; it’s a basic decency. Humanitarianism is helping strangers. That spirit of mutual support across borders defines the Red Cross and Red Crescent, and it will sustain us in the years ahead.Despite mounting pressures, the IFRC network remains committed to being local, everywhere. In many crises, Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff are among the first to respond and the last to leave. Increasingly, they are the only humanitarians still present as others scale down. This reality demands that we work smarter, coordinate better, and ensure limited resources are used where they can have the greatest impact.The IFRC’s Global Plan for 2026 reflects this approach. With a funding requirement of 3.4 billion Swiss francs, it prioritises locally led action, strengthens National Society leadership, and channels most internationally mobilised resources to the national level. Investment in local capacity is not only more cost-effective — it is essential for sustainable humanitarian response.What gives me hope is the strength of this region’s National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Several National Societies that once received international assistance are now leading responses in their own countries and supporting neighbours across borders. This solidarity extends beyond the region, with long-standing partner National Societies continuing to show true comradeship by standing with sister organizations when they need to support most. This is humanitarianism at its best — not saviourism, but shared purpose, grounded in dignity, mutual support and respect for local leadership.As we conclude this meeting, we do so with renewed determination. The challenges ahead are immense, but so is the collective strength of our Red Cross and Red Crescent family. In a time of shrinking resources and growing humanitarian needs, solidarity is not just a commitment — it is how we will continue to deliver for communities across Asia Pacific. We call on like-minded partners to stand with us in this shared endeavour, so that assistance continues to reach those who need it most.Alexander Matheou, IFRC Regional Director for Asia Pacific.For more information or to request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances +60 19 271 3641

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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

IFRC: Urgent need to rethink humanitarian approach in Afghanistan

Kabul/Kuala Lumpur/Doha/Geneva, 3 May 2024 – The humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is gravely deteriorating, and a new approach is urgently needed. Without a radical rethink of approaches to humanitarian aid, the root causes of the crisis cannot be tackled sustainably. Time and funding are running out.The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the Afghan Red Crescent Society are calling for an urgent strategic reset in humanitarian approaches to Afghanistan. This call comes ahead of a partnership meeting hosted in Doha by the Afghan Red Crescent Society in cooperation with the Qatar Red Crescent Society and attended by participating national societies from Britain, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, and Türkiye, as well as the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.Mawlawi Mutiul Haq Khales, the Acting President of the Afghan Red Crescent Society, said:"Communities are lurching from crisis to crisis at a time when their resilience is sub-zero and their coping mechanisms are exhausted. We ask our valued partners to take a long-term view and commit to tackling the root causes of the humanitarian crisis sustainably by investing in Afghan capacity, people, and systems.”“The needs of over 24 million people are vast and interconnected. Many have been caused by a combination of lingering impacts from decades-long conflict, climate shocks, and a deep economic crisis. The country’s resources are stretched, but capacities exist, and it is important that solutions are implemented to address the root causes of all these overlapping needs.”Alexander Matheou, IFRC Regional Director for Asia Pacific, has recently visited some of the life-changing programs delivered by the Afghan Red Crescent Society for women and children in Kabul and Kandahar. Speaking from the capital, he said:“We have been responding with emergency aid in Afghanistan for years now, and it is time for a rethink. We need to focus on Afghan institutions like the Afghan Red Crescent, which have a permanent role in the country. Their capacity is durable and will serve people before and after aid operations. We need to adapt our programming to focus on resilience and economic independence while still showing solidarity and providing assistance after sudden shocks like the Herat earthquake and the current floods.”He went on to reiterate the IFRC’s call for investment in people:“With limited access to education and jobs, we need a focus on youth, on professional and vocational training, and other learning opportunities—interventions designed to boost confidence and give hope. Otherwise, the future really does look grim.”More information:To request an interview, please contact: [email protected] Afghanistan:Mir Abdul Tawab Razavy: +93 747 407 027In Kuala Lumpur:Lili Chin: +6016 2340872In Geneva:Mrinalini Santhanam: +41 76 381 50 06

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Press release

Red Cross swings into action immediately after Japan earthquake

Tokyo/Beijing/Geneva, 3 January 2024 - Responding to a devastating magnitude 7.6 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in the Ishikawa Prefecture, the Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS) has mobilized swiftly. The events of New Year’s Day have caused extensive damage, disrupting power, water supplies, communications, and transportation. Tragically, at least sixty-two lives have been lost, with many more injured. In the immediate aftermath, JRCS's nationwide network was activated, with staff from the Tokyo headquarters rapidly deployed for assessment and coordination. Local chapters, supported by Red Cross hospitals and Blood Centres, initiated response actions. Echoing the spirit of solidarity, neighboring JRCS branches have dispatched additional relief teams. Nobuaki Sato, Deputy Director General of the International Department of the JRCS, said: “The earthquake shook the country to its maximum intensity and triggered the highest tsunami alert, and people could not help but be reminded of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami 13 years ago. We did not encounter a major tsunami, but there is a long way to go to promote the more rapid evacuation of people, search and rescue for missing people, support for evacuees and their recovery. The Japanese Red Cross Society will stay close to the people affected and provide support.” The JRCS’s robust disaster preparedness, marked by a well-orchestrated deployment of resources and personnel, has been crucial in this rapid response. This readiness is vital in a country like Japan, frequently confronted with seismic activities. Alexander Matheou, Regional Director for Asia Pacific of the IFRC, remarked: “We are with the Japanese Red Cross Society during these trying times, especially those displaced and traumatized by the earthquake. Although the Asia-Pacific Region is prone to frequent disasters, it has also proven itself to be leading the way in life-saving prevention, preparedness, resilience, and humanitarian innovation, sending us a strong message about the urgent need to strengthen humanitarian responses to disasters and crises. We thank our teams on the ground for the swift response, and we acknowledge that the impact will be psychological not just physical. The IFRC stands ready to support.” The IFRC, through its East Asia Delegation, remains closely engaged with the JRCS, ensuring a coordinated approach in addressing both the immediate and future challenges posed by this disaster. More information: To request an interview, please contact:[email protected]  In Kaula Lumpur: Afrhill Rances: +60 19 271 3641 In Geneva: Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 Mrinalini Santhanam: +41 76 381 50 06

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Podcast

Alexander Matheou: Flipping a common humanitarian narrative about a vast, diverse and dynamic region

In this episode, Alexander Matheou challenges a common humanitarian narrative about the Asia Pacific region being “disaster prone.” Yes, it is particularly vulnerable to climate-related events — and it has more than its share of volcanos and earthquakes — but it’s also leading the way in life-saving prevention, preparedness and humanitarian innovation. As IFRC’s regional director for the Asia Pacific region, Matheou talks about the opportunities and leadership this vast, dynamic and diverse region offers the humanitarian world.

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Press release

Crisis upon crisis: Devastating earthquakes strike Afghanistan as IFRC calls for urgent support

Kabul/Kuala Lumpur/Geneva, 12 October – Afghanistan faces an escalating humanitarian crisis following a devastating series of earthquakes. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) urgently reiterates its call for immediate action and international support, emphasizing that an existing appeal for 120 million Swiss Francs remains critically underfunded, with only 36 percent raised. The Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), in coordination with the IFRC and other partner Red Cross Red Crescent Societies, was among the first to respond. Their rapid interventions included emergency medical aid, essential non-food supplies, temporary shelter and rescue operations in the affected provinces. Mawlawi Mutiul Haq Khales, the Afghan Red Crescent Society Acting President, said: "The situation in the country is already extremely dire. People were just starting to recover when another series of massive earthquakes hit us, all within less than a week. On top of that, winter is coming, and there's an urgent need for shelter, food and healthcare." The earthquakes hit the western part of Afghanistan, and primarily affected Badghis, Ghor, and especially Herat, registering a magnitude of 6.3. Sadly, another earthquake of the same magnitude followed four days later, causing further destruction and loss of lives. These events resulted in significant casualties, destroyed homes, and displaced many individuals. This catastrophe exacerbates Afghanistan's existing humanitarian crises of severe drought and economic hardship. Speaking from the backdrop of his visit to the affected parts of Herat this week, Alexander Matheou, IFRC Regional Director for Asia Pacific, remarked: “What we are seeing on the ground is a chilling scene: three affected villages which I visited two days ago have been reduced to absolute rubble, with not a single house left standing. Our teams on the ground say this is the picture in several other villages. These early observations underscore that the full extent of the damage is yet to be realized.” "The Afghan Red Crescent Society's tireless efforts in this catastrophic situation cannot be overstated. They've been first responders, reaching affected areas swiftly and delivering crucial assistance. We have managed to redirect essential supplies and mobile health facilities to the most impacted areas within a day, thanks to our network of trained volunteers and responders.” Immediate needs include food aid, cash assistance, emergency shelter and household items. There is also a focus on emergency health care, mental support and clean water and sanitation. Further assessments are ongoing to determine the disaster's entire impact and to strategize for emerging needs like shelter repair, livelihood recovery, and facility rehabilitation. Alexander Matheou added: “The full scale of the tragedy is still unfolding, and international support is urgently needed. Afghanistan can't be a footnote in a world already grappling with multiple crises. Every contribution counts, especially now, when our resources are already stretched to their limits." In light of the growing demands, the IFRC is revising its appeal for 120 million Swiss Francs to aid the ongoing efforts of the Afghan Red Crescent Society. Currently, this appeal remains severely underfunded, with only 36 percent of the required funds raised. Contributions can be made through participating national societies or directly via the IFRC website. More information To request an interview, please contact: [email protected] In Afghanistan: Mir Abdul Tawab Razavy: +93 747 407 027 In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances: +60 192 713 641 In Geneva: Mrinalini Santhanam: +41 76 381 50 06 Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 

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Article

Myanmar: IFRC Regional Director reiterates need for principled humanitarian assistance

The IFRC Regional Director for Asia Pacific, Alexander Matheou, visited Myanmar from 23 to 29 April 2023. The purpose of the visit was to meet the new leadership of the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) and to discuss with them the importance of applying the Red Cross’ Fundamental Principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence to provide principled humanitarian assistance in a complex emergency. To this end, Mr. Matheou also met State Administration Council ministries, including the Minister of Health, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of International Cooperation. The Regional Director highlighted the special auxiliary role of MRCS in the provision of humanitarian services in Myanmar, and the importance of respecting its independence and neutrality as it delivers assistance in response to natural disasters, in health crises, and in situations of conflict. Noting the role of the IFRC to support and strengthen the actions and institutional capacity of the MRCS, the Regional Director also called for facilitation of humanitarian assistance, especially in areas that are hardest to reach. He confirmed IFRC’s commitment to supporting the MRCS to respond to humanitarian needs, aligned with the Red Cross’ Fundamental Principles. Mr. Matheou said: “Over 17 million people need humanitarian assistance in Myanmar. It is one of the largest and most complex humanitarian crises in the world. No single organization can reach everyone in need or reach all parts of the country affected by the crisis. Like other organizations, we have our limitations. However, Myanmar Red Cross is the country’s largest humanitarian organization, and it has a key role to play in communities across the country, through its local branches and its trained volunteers." "Our job as IFRC is to assist Myanmar Red Cross to fulfil that role in a principled way, to the benefit of as many people as possible in Myanmar, in response to both natural and manmade disasters, and strengthen its role as a local community actor.” With a nationwide network, Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) is the country’s largest humanitarian organization delivering humanitarian assistance across the country. The MRCS, supported by the IFRC network, provides services in disaster management and risk reduction, health and care, mental health and psychosocial support, water and sanitation, restoring family links, and first aid and safety services, amongst others. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the MRCS assisted millions of people through risk awareness messaging, vaccination support, quarantine support and distribution of protective items, as well as providing oxygen to dozens of thousands of people in need, along with cash assistance to support socio-economic recovery of affected households. In the past two years since the military intervention, the MRCS has assisted hundreds of thousands of people across the country, in hard to access areas such as Chin, Magway, Sagaing, Kayah and Kayin, as well as Shan State and Yangon, through food assistance, cash distributions, medical assistance and non-food items such as hygiene kits, dignity kits, water filters, amongst others. The MRCS works as an auxiliary to public authorities in the humanitarian field, like all 192 National Societies of the Red Cross or Red Crescent around the world. Media contact: In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances, Regional Communications Manager, [email protected], +60 19 271 3641

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Press release

"At the heart of our services in Afghanistan are women and girls: as recipients and as deliverers."

Kuala Lumpur / Geneva, 26 December 2022 - Every day, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) supports thousands of people in Afghanistan to cope with disasters, hunger, and access to health care. At the heart of these services are women and girls: as recipients, designers, and deliverers. They are the centre of our work. Women are the main clients of the primary health services supported through the Afghanistan Red Crescent Society. Female medical staff make these services possible as doctors, nurses, midwives, and outreach workers. Women lead the vocational training and care and support for destitute women in our Marastoon centres across the country. Women are critical to how we design and monitor services for women and girls. They should not, and cannot, be replaced by male colleagues. IFRC is extremely concerned by the recent announcements of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) suspending women’s access to higher education and to work in national and international non-governmental organisations. It is not clear yet how these announcements will apply to the IFRC. We remain committed to gender diversity, to our female colleagues and to service continuity involving female colleagues. That is how we reach communities and the most vulnerable across the country. We will represent this commitment to the authorities. However, whatever the direct effect of the announcements on our work, such exclusion is devastating for the country in the short term and long term. Its impact on those in need of humanitarian services will be appalling. We urge the authorities to consider this impact and to find solutions that enable continuity of life-saving assistance across Afghanistan, in the interests of women and girls, and of all Afghans. For more information, contact: Afrhill Rances, +60 19 271 3641 [email protected] Rachel Punitha, +60 19 791 3830, [email protected]

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Press release

Millions of people in Asia living in stagnant water at risk of facing deadly diseases

Kuala Lumpur, 27 October 2022 – After unprecedented floods continue to hit many parts of Asia, dangerous un-subsiding flood waters are now the crisis, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warns. Men, women, and children are being forced to live out their day-to-day lives in dirty, stagnated water, and are at risk of deadly diseases such as malaria, dengue, cholera, and diarrhoea, not to mention long-term harmful effects to their bodies. This year's monsoon season in the region saw more than 42 million people being severely hit by floods, landslides, and torrential rains since August. Moreover, this number only includes records from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand, Vietnam, Lao, and Cambodia. Erratic and early rains triggered often unprecedented floods, damaging homes, livestock, infrastructure and more. Many weeks later, the flood waters have not receded. Joy Singhal, IFRC’s Regional Head, Health, Disasters, Climate and Crisis, said: “Stagnation of water, muck and mud following floods is a thriving breeding ground for mosquitoes, bacteria, and other harmful organisms. If left unattended to, this will trigger surges in infectious diseases. “Prolonged water stagnation also causes lasting damage to water supplies and infrastructure, threatening the health of communities long into the future.” Flood waters bring in substantial amounts of dirt and garbage into homes, schools, and infrastructure. Even if some volume of the water dissipates, torrential rain continues, and the waters rise again. Many people have resorted to staying longer in shelters than usual. Emergency shelters have had to be relocated numerous times due to rising waters. Some areas, especially in South Asia, reported that the water took almost two months to subside, while most took weeks. This also poses the threat of being infected with COVID-19, as evacuation sites are often crowded and without proper ventilation. Alexander Matheou, IFRC’s Asia Pacific Regional Director, said: “Our teams across the region are reporting grave concerns for communities now facing the often-unseen crisis that follows in the wake of such devastating floods. "Across the length and breadth of Asia, our health and relief teams are reporting severe repercussions of stagnating waters. People have nowhere to go and are forced to live in dangerous conditions. “These unmoving waters pose a huge hindrance to communities relocating back to their homes, and therefore prolongs displacement. Not to mention devastating impacts to livestock, agriculture, shelter repairs and further increasing economic hardships, eventually preventing them from heading back to lead normal lives.” The IFRC have launched emergency appeals multiple times this year to support Red Cross Red Crescent activities across the region for the humanitarian issues arising from the floods, with a focus on immediate needs like providing shelters, relief and medical care. To arrange an interview, get access to audio-visuals, or for more information, contact: In Kuala Lumpur: Afrhill Rances, +60 19 271 3641, [email protected] Rachel Punitha, +60 19 791 3830, [email protected]

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Press release

Sri Lanka’s vulnerable forced to risk “a pathway to destitution"

Colombo/Kuala Lumpur, 14 October 2022 – The deepening economic crisis is forcing people to make heartbreaking choices between going hungry, buying life-saving medicine, or finding the money to send children to school. A needs assessment conducted by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in 11 of the country’s 25 districts has found that 96% of the more than 2,900 households surveyed have been affected by the current crisis in some way—with food insecurity, health, livelihoods, and nutrition among the top concerns. Deteriorating physical safety and security, as well as violence against women and children, stood out. The report uncovered worryingly high problems of access to food, either because of high cost, income stress or lack of availability. Runaway inflation and loss of livelihoods have doubly impacted people’s ability to cope with the record cost of living. Income loss is causing significant food insecurity, while inflation is driving up the cost of medicine and fuel costs are preventing access to essential healthcare. The report gravely warns that without immediate humanitarian interventions, the impact on communities is likely to be long-lasting and cumulative. Director General of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, Dr Mahesh Gunasekara, said: “We work on the ground and at the heart of communities. We hear the most heart-wrenching stories of loss of hope and gripping fear for the future. Life for them is like losing the battle for survival; for single women with children, people living with disabilities, the elderly, casual labourers, and fishermen. “The most vulnerable need our help now so they can get through the worst of the economic crisis. We need to act to ensure lives are saved and restored.” Speaking on a visit to Colombo to meet affected communities, the Government and the diplomatic community, the Regional Director, Asia Pacific of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Alexander Matheou, said: “The report provides first-hand evidence of how the most vulnerable people, who are already under the poverty line, are being driven further towards despair. As a result, people are resorting to borrowing heavily, eating less food and fewer times per day, pawning valuables and assets, and using other survival strategies just to scrape by. “Our main priorities remain meeting humanitarian needs at its worst. Unless this is done effectively and quickly, people who are struggling now will find themselves on a demeaning pathway to destitution from which there is no escape. The time to act is now.” To meet the country’s spiralling needs, the IFRC has launched an Emergency Appeal for urgent humanitarian assistance for 28 million Swiss francs in support of Sri Lanka Red Cross. In line with the IFRC appeal, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) supports the Sri Lanka Red Cross to respond to the humanitarian issues arising from the economic crisis with a focus on providing medical equipment to the healthcare system and economic assistance to vulnerable people. To arrange an interview, get access to audio-visuals, or for more information, contact: In Colombo: Kate Marshall, +94 77357 6408, [email protected] In Kuala Lumpur: Rachel Punitha, +60-197-913-830, [email protected]

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Press release

Nearly 1 million still await life at the world largest displacement camp

Kuala Lumpur/ Dhaka, 22 Aug 2022: This 25 August marks five long years of the massive displacement of people from Rakhine state of Myanmar, who crossed the border into Bangladesh. The protracted crisis now stands at colossal number of displaced people in the camp – 936,733 people – who are completely reliant on humanitarian assistance to meet their everyday needs in the world’s largest camp in Cox’s Bazar. At the beginning of this humanitarian crisis, the Government of Bangladesh called on Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to respond to the emergency in line with Red Crescent’s mandate to provide humanitarian services as auxiliary to the public authorities. In response, an international operation was launched in Cox's Bazar with the support of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and its RCRC partners, called Population Movement Operation. The Secretary General of Bangladesh Red Crescent, Kazi Shofiqul Azam said: “The crisis had already tipped into a complex protracted displacement crisis a while ago. Top priorities must go to long-term solutions, balancing the initiatives in the camps and to the neighbouring host community. “We are calling for long-term commitment and resources that are very much needed to address this crisis. Children make up almost a 51 per cent of the camp population, while women and girls represent almost 52 per cent of the population. One in three displaced families has at least one easily identifiable protection vulnerability, such as human trafficking, underage marriage, sexual exploitation and abuse. Many sustainable initiatives that were implemented at the camp have been lifesaving for the people there such as mid-term shelters or durable housing, solar-powered water supply networks, and disaster mitigation activities. However, the people there remains completely dependent on humanitarian assistance to meet daily and longer-term needs. Asia Pacific Regional Director of IFRC Mr. Alexander Matheou said: “What you see on the surface in the camps has improved over five years thanks to the work of the government of Bangladesh and multiple national and international partners. “But below the surface, in people's lives, where the future is uncertain and there is no work or movement, there are less obvious but important risks - of depression, trafficking, violence, including gender-based violence. With no durable solutions in sight, the humanitarian response needs to focus on recreation and protection as much as lifesaving needs. The situation is further compounded by the fact that Cox’s Bazar sits right on the path of cyclones, and hence is constantly subject to seasonal flash floods, devastating cyclones and heavy rainfall that cause landslides, severe water logging, shelter damages; frequent fire incidents; potential outbreaks of cholera, dengue and diphtheria. Also due to the sheer number of people there, epidemics such as cholera and COVID are a huge day-to-day threat. The IFRC Head of Delegation in Bangladesh, Sanjeev Kafley said: “This is one of IFRC’s largest, most complex humanitarian support in Bangladesh. For the last five years, the IFRC and many partner National Societies have been supporting Bangladesh Red Crescent in ensuring the protection and extended humanitarian support for the camp. “Considering COVID-19 experience, the IFRC is focusing on institutional preparedness. The IFRC’s strategy of supporting the displaced and host communities in Cox’s Bazar includes integrated community resilience, social inclusion and readiness for effective response till 2024; for now. Bangladesh Red Crescent, with the support of IFRC and Participating National Societies (PNS), will maintain and look to scale up its efforts to meet the urgent humanitarian needs and keep the hundreds of thousands of families safe through a range of life saving humanitarian assistance including shelter, health, PSS, wash, livelihood, DRM as well as emergencies and disaster response. The protection, gender and inclusion and community engagement and accountability are mainstreamed in our operation ensuring people at the center of our action. For more information or to arrange an interview, contact: Cox's Bazar: Barkat Ullah Maruf, +880 1711 222922, [email protected] Sabrina Idris, +880 1710-840327, [email protected] Dhaka: Mahmudul Hasan, +880 1716-103333, [email protected] Kuala Lumpur: Rachel Punitha, +60 19 791 3830, [email protected]

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Press release

Urgent call for international aid as Pakistan battles floods

Kuala Lumpur/ Islamabad, 1 September 2022: Millions of people struggling in the face of devastating floods across Pakistan need urgent global support, the International Federation of Red Cross Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said today. An excess of one million homes have been damaged or destroyed by the massive floods, leaving 3.1 million people displaced and in severe danger. Over half a million people are reported putting up in relief camps around the country. The worst flood in more than a decade has also swept away livestock and wiped out an estimated two million acres of food crops, with dire consequences for millions of people across the country. The Chairman of Pakistan Red Crescent, Abrar ul Haq, said: “We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of so many lives, and the misery and hardship these floods have brought to people across Pakistan who are now trying to seek safety on what high ground they can find. “Everywhere we look, homes, farmland, and critical infrastructure has been submerged. We are doing all they can to take people to safety and provide critical relief, but much more assistance is needed.” In response to the flooding, and in anticipation of further impacts, the IFRC has launched an Emergency Appeal for 25 million Swiss Francs to fund relief and recovery efforts for an estimated 324,000 people. IFRC has already provided 481,000 Swiss francs to support local emergency efforts. Asia Pacific Regional Director of IFRC Alexander Matheou said: "I visited house after house drenched in mud and water. Everything inside was destroyed. Mosquitos were everywhere. Some have managed to get their loved ones and livestock to higher ground. Many were not so lucky. “Everyone we met said that most of all they need were food and water to survive, and then help to clean and repair their homes. “This abnormal monsoon rainfall, nearly three times higher than usual, is yet another example of the devastating impact of climate change on some of the world’s poorest communities.” The monsoon season, which runs from May to September, has hit the region particularly hard this year, with countries like Afghanistan, Nepal, India and Bangladesh also experiencing heavy rainfall and flooding. For more information or to arrange an interview, contact: In Kuala Lumpur: Rachel Punitha, +60 19 791 3830, [email protected] In Islamabad: Sher Zaman, +92 51 9250404-6, [email protected] Geneva: Jenelle Eli, +1 202-603-6803, [email protected]

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Press release

Afghanistan: Worst drought and hunger crisis in decades

Kuala Lumpur/Kabul/Geneva, 2 December – Afghanistan is in the grip of one of the worst droughts and food shortage crises in decades, threatening an unrivalled humanitarian catastrophe as a bitter winter looms large for millions of Afghans. Emergency food relief and winter survival kits are being urgently delivered by Afghan Red Crescent to people in areas worst affected by severe food shortages, supported by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Around 22.8 million people – 55 per cent of Afghanistan’s population – are experiencing high levels of acute food shortages. Severe drought has hit more than 80 percent of the country, crippling food production and forcing people from their land. Nearly 700,000 people have been internally displaced this year, joining some 3.5 million people already forced from their homes throughout the country, who all face a harsh winter, when temperatures can drop as low as -20C in some areas of Afghanistan. Mawlawi Mutiul Haq Khales, Afghan Red Crescent Acting President, said: “Afghans have shown remarkable resilience in the face of this latest drought, growing hunger and decades of conflict. Millions of people are struggling to survive due to wholescale crop losses, acute food shortages, and a lack of cash to buy basic necessities. “Afghan Red Crescent teams have not stopped helping people with relief and healthcare, but the vast majority of families remain unassisted, lacking adequate food provisions, money for the very basic needs and survival kits to get through the harsh winter months ahead.” The IFRC is providing 3,000 tonnes of food relief for 210,000 people and winter survival kits are being urgently delivered by Afghan Red Crescent in some of the hardest hit provinces for those suffering shortages and loss of income. To mitigate the misery and hardships of winter, families are being provided with winter kits, including blankets, thermal insulation and heaters but additional funding is needed to expand the humanitarian operations. As part of this ongoing support, the IFRC is urgently appealing to the international community for more than 36 million Swiss francs to support Afghan Red Crescent to deliver emergency relief and recovery assistance to 560,000 people in 16 provinces worst affected by severe drought and displacement. Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific Director, IFRC, who is currently in Afghanistan, said: “This is the worst drought and hunger crisis faced by Afghans in living memory. Much faster international action is needed to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe in the coming months. “We are in a race against time to deliver life-saving relief and supplies ahead of a harsh winter which will cut off some of Afghanistan's most vulnerable people from any chance of assistance. “People are already going hungry in Afghanistan and conditions are continuing to deteriorate. I have spoken to doctors who are reporting increased cases of acute malnutrition amongst children. It will only get worse in the weeks ahead.” As well as immediate relief, IFRC appeal funds will help with establishing more drought-resistant crops and revitalising livestock, while supporting critical income generation for women, the elderly and those most at risk of spiralling poverty. For more information or to arrange an interview, contact: In Kuala Lumpur: Antony Balmain, +60 12 230 8451, [email protected] In Geneva: Ann Vaessen, +41 79 405 77 50, [email protected]

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Press release

Bangladesh: Greater efforts needed to keep people safe on Bhashan Char

Kuala Lumpur/Dhaka/Geneva, 23 November 2021: Urgent action is being taken to keep people safe from cyclones and the COVID-19 pandemic on Bhashan Char Island. COVID-19 vaccinations have been underway for people aged over 55 on the island, and more doses are due for the remaining adults. Around 18,000 people displaced from Rakhine, Myanmar, have been relocated by authorities from camps in Cox’s Bazar to sturdier homes on Bhashan Char. Bangladesh Red Crescent has been working directly with displaced people so that lifesaving measures are in place ahead of the next big cyclone, as big storms regularly threaten the area from September until December. Feroz Salah Uddin, Secretary General of Bangladesh Red Crescent Society said: “Every effort is being made on Bhashan Char Island to improve living conditions and support people to be well prepared to take early lifesaving action ahead of any super cyclones. Volunteer teams have been trained in early warning action drills, first aid, search and rescue, and managing cyclone shelters. “Our teams have been helping with COVID-19 vaccinations for older people most at risk of the disease while helping everyone to stay safe and healthy with clean water, food relief packs, hygiene kits, and access to healthcare.” The IFRC is appealing for 86 million Swiss Francs to provide critical immediate and longer-term humanitarian support for the nearly one million displaced people living in the camps in Cox’s Bazar and those on Bhashan Char Island, including safer shelter, healthcare, improved access to clean water and sanitation and protecting people from the growing risks of climate disasters. In recent weeks, Bangladesh Red Crescent volunteers have helped vaccinate more than 1,000 people aged over 55, and more vaccinations are planned as soon as vaccines become available. Alexander Matheou, Asia Pacific Director, international Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies said: “Everyone living on Bhashan Char Island needs to feel safe and every effort needs to be made to enable Bangladesh to have a fair share of COVID-19 vaccines. This is a critical part of enabling Bangladesh to manage the responsibility of hosting such a large number of displaced people.” “The IFRC has revised its Emergency Appeal for the next three years, to help meet the growing humanitarian needs in Cox's Bazaar and Bhashan Char, including risks from climate disasters. There is a critical 75 million Swiss Francs funding gap. After meeting the Bangladesh State Minister of Disaster Management and Relief, Alexander Matheou said: "Beyond immediate humanitarian assistance, it is clear that we must work together to support safety, livelihoods, recreation and overall well-being of people experiencing such a long and traumatic displacement.” Alexander Matheou is visiting Bhashan Char with the leadership of Bangladesh Red Crescent today. Read and download the revised Emergency Appeal here. For more information or to arrange an interview, contact: In Dhaka: Sajid Hasan, +880 1673 019617, [email protected] Mahmudul Hasan, +880 1716 103333, [email protected] In Kuala Lumpur: Antony Balmain, +60 12 230 8451, [email protected]

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Press release

Afghanistan faces collapse of health services and mass hunger

Kuala Lumpur/Kabul/Geneva, 30 September - The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) warns that Afghanistan faces imminent collapse of health services and widespread hunger if aid and money do not flow into the country within weeks. Acute food shortages fuelled by serious drought, lack of cash and displacement, the COVID-19 pandemic and crippled health services have converged on the people of Afghanistan, with some 18 million Afghans in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. Speaking from Kabul where he has been on a four-day official visit, Alexander Matheou, IFRC Asia Pacific Director said: “After living through decades of fleeing and fighting, Afghans now face a severe drought which has devastated food production, leaving millions hungry and destitute. “We are deeply concerned that Afghanistan faces imminent collapse of health services and worsening hunger if aid and money do not flow into the country within weeks. Health financing has been cut across the country placing ever more demand on Red Crescent teams. “Urgent international action is needed to support millions of people with the necessities of life as Afghanistan’s looming harsh winter threatens greater misery and hardships.” Afghan Red Crescent is providing support in some of the hardest hit provinces, including relief supplies to families suffering food shortages and loss of income. Red Crescent has been providing families who have lost their livelihoods due to the drought with cash grants to buy food, to plant drought-resistant food crops and protect their livestock. Health clinics, including mobile teams of doctors and nurses, are providing critical care across Afghanistan. As part of this ongoing support, the IFRC is urgently appealing to the international community for more than 36 million Swiss francs to support Afghan Red Crescent to deliver emergency relief and recovery assistance to 560,000 people in 16 provinces worst affected by severe drought and displacement. “Afghan Red Crescent has a long history of helping people living in areas other agencies are unable to reach. Red Crescent teams are ramping up critical maternal and child healthcare, food assistance and other emergency relief, but much more support is needed. “IFRC appeal funds will be used to help with sustainable water supplies, establishing more drought-resistant crops and revitalising livestock, while supporting critical income generation for those most at risk of spiralling poverty, including women and the elderly.” For more information or to arrange an interview, contact: In Kuala Lumpur: Antony Balmain, +60 12 230 8451 [email protected] In Geneva: Nathalie Perroud, +41 79 538 14 71 [email protected] IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 192 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies working to save lives and promote dignity around the world. www.ifrc.org - Facebook - Twitter - YouTube

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Press release

COVID-19: Southeast Asia battles world’s highest deaths

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

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Bio

Regional Director for Asia Pacific

Alexander Matheou has worked in the humanitarian sector for 20 years, both within and outside the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. He has worked across a variety of fields, including: disaster response, food security, social exclusion, displacement and migration, HIV/TB prevention and institutional development. Prior to taking on his current role at IFRC, Alexander was the Executive Director of International at the British Red Cross. Previously, Alexander held several high-level positions at the IFRC in Africa and the former Soviet Union. He was also Director of the International HIV/AIDS Alliance in India and worked for the Open Society Foundations and the International Finance Corporation in Russia and Central Asia. Alexander is a regular contributor of opinion pieces on humanitarian and development issues to an assortment of audiences and forums.

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Press release

South East Asia: COVID-19 vaccine divide widens as Delta surges

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

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Press release

Myanmar: IFRC calls for greater protection of health workers and warns of a deepening humanitarian crisis

Kuala Lumpur/Yangon/Geneva,1 April 2021 - Two months following the military takeover in Myanmar, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is deeply concerned about the escalating violence and mounting casualties amongst the civilian population and is warning of a deepening humanitarian crisis. Alexander Matheou, IFRC’s Asia Pacific Regional Director, said: “The levels of violence and the use of lethal force that have resulted in so many casualties and grave injuries amongst the population is deeply shocking. Myanmar Red Cross first aid teams working on the frontlines of this emergency have provided care to over 2,000 people, often at great personal risk.” “In some instances, Myanmar Red Cross first aiders and medics have been wrongfully arrested, intimidated or injured and Red Cross property and ambulances have been damaged. This is unacceptable. Health workers should never be a target. They should be granted unrestricted humanitarian access to people in need.” With major disruptions to emergency medical services, Myanmar Red Cross is one of a few organization’s currently able to help across the country, thanks to their nationwide network and levels of acceptance with local communities. Close to 2,000 Red Cross volunteers are working at 246 first aid posts set up in 175 townships across the country. The Red Cross also operates a fleet of 142 ambulances which have been used to treat and evacuate the seriously ill or wounded. On its part, the IFRC released funding from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) to help the Myanmar Red Cross sustain nationwide reach of its emergency first aid and medical transport services to aid an estimated 22,500 people until June, 2021. Longer term plans are rapidly being developed in line with escalating humanitarian needs in the months ahead. The current state of unrest poses a significant threat to efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic in Myanmar where testing, tracing and treatment capacity has been markedly reduced in the past two months. “In the coming months we could be facing a perfect storm in Myanmar where another wave of COVID-19 infections collides with a deepening humanitarian crisis spreading across the entire country.” “As basic services such as health care, banking, transportation and logistics suffer major disruption, we inevitably see rising prices, food insecurity, increased population movements and a range of acute medical needs emerging,” said Mr Matheou. The IFRC is also worried that the current political crisis could destabilise ongoing humanitarian programmes in Myanmar. “With significant disruptions to banking services we could soon be struggling to support Myanmar Red Cross programmes in several parts of the country. This includes planned cash assistance to help families recover from COVID-19. Vulnerable people already suffering terrible hardships face greater risks”, said Mr Matheou. Notes to Editors: According to the World Health Organization, between 1February and 24March, 2021, there were 31 attacks on health-care facilities and staff, resulting in two deaths and six injuries. Dozens of facilities and several ambulances have been affected in 12 states and regions.

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Press release

Myanmar: Red Cross urges protection for first aiders amid recent violence

Kuala Lumpur/Yangon/Geneva, 5 March 2021 – The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is deeply saddened by recent loss of life in Myanmar and is urging immediate protection for all Red Cross volunteers and health workers. Alexander Matheou, IFRC’s Asia Pacific Regional Director, said: “Amid the spiralling violence, the Myanmar Red Cross has confirmed that over recent days, there have been very serious incidents where Red Cross volunteers were injured and wrongfully arrested. Red Cross ambulances have also been damaged. “We express profound sadness that Myanmar Red Cross volunteers have been injured while on duty providing lifesaving first aid treatment to wounded people, in line with fundamental principles of humanity, neutrality and impartiality. Red Cross volunteers should never be targeted.” The Myanmar Red Cross has mounted one of its largest ever first aid and patient transfer humanitarian operations with more than 1,500 volunteers and 120 ambulances in action across the whole country. In the past four weeks, the Myanmar Red Cross has provided first aid services, including some lifesaving interventions, as well as emergency ambulance transfers. In all, the Red Cross has helped more than 1,000 people. Mr Matheou said: “There is escalating violence and the number of people killed or injured is rising each day. The IFRC urges restraint and a halt to violence across Myanmar.” Amid the mass gatherings and violence over recent weeks, the IFRC is also very concerned about the risk that COVID-19 may be spreading unabated in areas of Myanmar. “The IFRC is alarmed about the risks of another deadly wave of COVID-19 in Myanmar as testing and access to hospitals or other health services is very limited,” said Mr Matheou. IFRC and other International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners continue to support Myanmar Red Cross in all its humanitarian endeavours at this critical time.

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Article

Tackling the humanitarian impacts of the climate crisis together

Imagine two neighbouring communities. One a wealthy neighbourhood next to a lake, its large houses surrounding a community hall that doubles as an evacuation centre. The other, a densely packed, low-income fishing village on the nearby harbour. The weather has been strange lately: destructive typhoons are becoming more frequent; the winds are stronger. Dangerous floods happen more often. Given the increasing risk, the authorities announce that they’ll take action to keep everyone safe. They decide to pay for a second evacuation centre in the wealthy suburb. This is clearly a terrible decision. But scenarios like this are playing out every day in countries and communities most at risk from our changing climate. Globally, 86 million people may be at risk of flooding by 2030, according to new research presented in the World Disasters Report 2020 - released today by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Asia is by far the most disaster-prone region in the world, experiencing around twice as many emergencies such as major floods and storms as the Americas or Africa. The study shows that of the 20 countries assessed as most vulnerable to climate change, and climate and weather-related disasters, including Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands in the Pacific, not one was among the 20 highest per-person recipients of climate adaptation funding, according to the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative. Bangladesh and Myanmar are only just ahead of the 20 countries most vulnerable to climate disasters, yet both have seen gains in recent years. In Bangladesh, investment in early action ahead of floods and cyclones is not only preventing death and injury but making it a little easier to recover from more destructive and frequent monsoonal flooding. None of the five countries that spend the most on adaptation to climate change had “very high” – or even “high” vulnerability scores. Not one was classed as “fragile”. place. At the other end of the funding spectrum, less than 1 US dollar per person is being made available for climate adaptation funding in five out the eight “very high” vulnerability countries, and 38 out of 60 countries deemed to be of “high” vulnerability. This is the equivalent of putting the new evacuation centre by the lake, rather than making it accessible to the fishing community that is at high risk from storms and floods. And all over the world, people are being left at risk because the resources required for adapting to climate disasters and reducing risks are not reaching the community level, where they are needed the most. Urgent investment is needed, now, if countries are to introduce necessary climate adaption measures that will protect communities and prevent human and economic costs of disasters. But how can we do this in the current economic situation? After all, looking just at the adaptation needs outlined in the nationally determined contributions of 50 developing countries, 50 billion US dollars is needed every year. My worry is that this shortfall will continue to grow as governments and international donors concentrate on the ongoing pandemic. But climate adaptation work can’t take a back seat while the world is preoccupied with COVID-19. The two crises have to be tackled together. And we have the opportunity to do this. The massive stimulus packages that are being developed around the world in response to COVID-19 are an opportunity to “build back better”. We can build a green and adaptive recovery, using relevant funds to invest in making communities safer and more resilient to future disasters. We can expect the pandemic to have a serious impact on future resources. But this underlines the importance of smart financing to reduce disaster risks and promote climate adaptation in all communities exposed to hazards. Climate change is an even more significant threat to humanity than the COVID-19 pandemic. It affects us all. Some countries in Asia and the Pacific are currently more exposed to climate risks than others, but we will all feel the impact eventually. So we all have to adapt. We can start by putting resources at the disposal of the people who need it most. By protecting them, we give everyone a better chance of preventing the terrible human toll from storms, floods and fires that will affect us all.

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