Norway gives NOK 30 million to flood-ravaged Pakistan

Pakistan is experiencing its worst floods in 80 years. According to the UN, over a million people are affected by the flooding, and reports suggest that almost 1100 people have lost their lives. “Norway is providing NOK 30 million to support emergency relief efforts during this critical phase,” Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said.

Norway has already provided NOK 9 million through the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). An additional allocation of NOK 21 million to UNICEF, the Pakistan Emergency Response Fund (ERF), managed by OCHA, and the Pakistan Red Crescent Society/the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) means that Norway is providing a total of NOK 30 million to help the flood victims.  

“We will follow developments in Pakistan closely in the time ahead, and will continue to assess the humanitarian situation. The coordinating role of the UN is crucial for ensuring a good and effective humanitarian response. We will therefore be guided by UN advice when deciding how to allocate Norwegian funds,” Mr Støre commented. 

The north-western and western provinces, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, have been worst hit by the floods. The situation is still chaotic and the damage caused by the flooding is only just becoming apparent. There is serious risk of the spread of waterborne diseases. 

“The floods have washed away whole villages, and caused extensive damage to hospitals, roads and critical infrastructure. The need for clean water, food and shelter is acute,” Mr Støre said. 

UN humanitarian organisations are actively engaged in efforts to coordinate and provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the floods. Norway considers it important to support humanitarian actors that have the necessary knowledge, experience, and proximity to the victims to provide effective assistance.