Other measures and initiatives supported by Norway

Country-level efforts

Despite the coronavirus pandemic, much of Norway’s country-level development and humanitarian assistance can be continued, in some cases with minor adjustments. In certain countries Norway has already decided to redirect funding to address pandemic-related needs. In India, Norway has contributed NOK 8 million to WHO’s anti-coronavirus efforts. In Malawi, Norway has redirected NOK 13 million at the request of local authorities to purchase infection control equipment and related items.

• Norway to contribute more than NOK 13 million to Malawi’s response to Covid-19 

Norway is contributing NOK 40.5 million in cooperation with the UN to address short-term needs in connection with the Western Balkans crisis. A reordering of bilateral assistance makes it possible to supply crucial medical equipment at an early stage while determining medium-term needs. Potential measures are being studied to address the socioeconomic ramifications of the crisis (with a special focus on maintaining jobs at small and medium-sized companies) and to help maintain rule of law and human rights in the countries.

Ceasefires

On 23 March, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued an urgent call for a global ceasefire in response to the coronavirus outbreak. In cooperation with the UN and other partners, Norway has contributed to ceasefires in the Philippines and to unilateral ceasefires by the National Liberation Army (ELN) in Columbia and the National Revolutionary Front (BRN) in South Thailand.  

• The Philippines: ceasefire amidst coronavirus battle
• Norway renews support for global ceasefire and stronger focus on the needs of people over politics