Statement by Mr. Dmitry Chumakov, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation, at the virtual Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) High-Level Pledging Event: “A Fund for All, by All”
Distinguished Mr. Chairman,
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen,
Issues of provision of humanitarian assistance are among the major priorities of the international agenda.
They are particularly relevant at a time when the world is facing an unprecedented health emergency. According to the UN forecast, the number of people in need of humanitarian aid may triple due to pandemic. The coronavirus has dealt a devastating blow to the financial capacity of donors, but did not break the main thing – their determination to continue to combat humanitarian risks.
That is why today’s CERF Pledging event is more relevant than ever. The Fund is the central financial mechanism of the UN system for mobilizing funds for the provision of urgent humanitarian assistance and covering the deficit of underfunded appeals.
Last year, through joint efforts, we came close to the goal of reaching 1 bln US dollar goal of CERF fulfillment. We are sure that if it were not for the coronavirus than this goal would have been reached.
For decades the Russian Federation has remained a responsible and reliable donor. Our efforts are fully consistent with the Guiding humanitarian principles, and assistance is provided both on bilateral basis and through the UN humanitarian organizations.
Russia joined Fund’s work in 2010. We are delighted that our donor activity is long-term and predictable. Our contribution to the Fund’s budget for the year 2021 will amount to 1.5 mln US dollars.
I thank you.
