World Food Programme distributes humanitarian aid in Ethiopia. UN Secretary-General calls for exceptions amid US aid suspension Humanitarian Aid
The United Nations Secretary-General has expressed concern over the recent announcement of a US aid suspension and called for immediate action to mitigate the potential impact on vulnerable communities around the world.
The statement, issued on behalf of the UN chief by his press office on Monday, stressed the importance of additional waivers to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of vital development and humanitarian assistance programmes, which the Secretary-General noted are a lifeline for millions of people facing serious challenges in developing countries. “The Secretary-General calls for additional waivers to be considered to ensure the continuation of critical development and humanitarian assistance programmes for the most vulnerable communities around the world whose lives and livelihoods depend on this support,” the statement said. Recognizing the key role of the United States as one of the world’s largest providers of aid, the Secretary-General stressed the need to work constructively with the new US administration to develop a strategic path forward. He expressed hope for engagement with the US authorities to support people facing the most difficult challenges. The Secretary-General’s appeal comes amid record levels of global humanitarian need caused by worsening conflicts, economic instability and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.