Norway increases support in aftermath of earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria

The Minister of Foreign Affairs announced Norway’s additional support at an International Donors’ Conference in Brussels today. This brings Norway’s total funding for the earthquake relief efforts to approximately NOK 350 million.  

‘It is critical now that we do not forget the most vulnerable people. Norway is increasing its support for the earthquake victims by a further NOK 100 million, making our country one of the largest donors to the earthquake relief efforts,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.  

Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen co-hosted the International Donors’ Conference to mobilise increased support for the people of Türkiye and Syria following the 6 February earthquakes.  

‘Norway was quick to allocate funds for relief efforts and to send personnel and assistance to the disaster areas. More than NOK 250 million in funding has already been disbursed to the UN, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Norwegian humanitarian partners. The funds have also been used to send experts and equipment to the affected areas in Türkiye and Syria,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.  

The Norwegian Armed Forces have assisted with the transport of emergency equipment and the medical evacuation of injured people.  

‘Our partners have provided a large amount of life-saving emergency aid, and they will continue to do so. However, we must also take a longer-term perspective. It is vital that we help people to become more self-sufficient and address the needs of the most vulnerable people in our response to these types of crises. The situation for many millions of people was already very difficult before the earthquake hit,’ said Ms Huitfeldt.  

In Syria, this disaster comes on top of 12 years of civil war. Norway has been one of the largest donors to the humanitarian response in Syria for many years.  

Norway is also providing assistance to the Turkish people. The focus is on providing essential humanitarian aid and protection to the most vulnerable earthquake victims. Plans are also under way to provide further support for health care, particularly in Türkiye. 

More information on Norway’s support for the earthquake victims can be found here: 

• Norway providing substantial support for earthquake victim
• Enormous humanitarian needs after earthquake in Türkiye and Syria
• Norway to provide NOK 150 million to earthquake victims
• Norway increases support for earthquake victims