The United Nations on Monday called for $22.2 billion (approximately Rs 1.51 lakh crore) for aid in 2017 for those affected by conflicts and humanitarian crises around the world. UN humanitarian aid chief Stephen O’Brien said the amount was the highest ever requested by the world body, AFP reported.
“This is the reflection of a state of human needs in the world not witnessed since the Second World War,” O’Brien said. More than 80% of the requested aid was because of man-made conflicts, “many of which are now protracted and push up demand for relief year after year”, he said.
The funds will allow the UN and other humanitarian organisations to provide relief to around 92.8 million of the approximately 129 million people in need of aid across 33 countries. While the world body had called for $20.1 billion (approximately Rs 1.36 lakh crore) for 2016, it received only $11.4 billion (approximately Rs 77,695.50 crore) from donors.
The UN says it will provide $3.4 billion (approximately Rs 23,172.34 crore) in aid to Syria, where a six-year-long civil war has killed over 300,000 people. Another $2.5 billion (approximately Rs 17,038.48 crore) will be marked for South Sudan, which has been engaged in a civil war since 2013. Money will also be provided to those affected by the civil war in Yemen.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!