NOK 20 million in emergency relief to Côte d’Ivoire

“We are deeply concerned about the situation in Côte d’Ivoire and neighbouring countries. Therefore, we are providing NOK 20 million in emergency relief through the UN, the Red Cross system and the Norwegian Refugee Council,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The escalation of the crisis in Côte d’Ivoire during the past week has caused a considerable number of people to flee. Many thousands have crossed the border to neighbouring Liberia during the past few days. 70 000 refugees are now registered at the border with Liberia, and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees expects this figure to increase to 150 000 in a relatively short period of time.

“In this situation it is vital to protect the civilian population and ensure that international humanitarian principles are respected. We are following developments closely and will, on an ongoing basis, consider allocating additional funds,” said Mr Støre.

Norway is also allocating funds for UN humanitarian activities in Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia through the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF).