UNGA 74
High-Level Conference on the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF)
Statement by the Republic of Estonia
December 9, New York
Mr. Secretary-General, Excellences, ladies and gentlemen,
Whenever a crisis hits, it is essential that life-saving humanitarian assistance reaches the people in need as quickly and efficiently as possible. For over 13 years, the Central Emergency Response Fund has played a major role in providing timely and flexible funding to enable rapid humanitarian response when emergencies occur. In 2019, the Fund has financed the life-saving assistance in Sudan and helped to reduce the famine risk in the Horn of Africa, among others. Moreover, the fund has provided over $200M for world’s underfunded crises.
The Central Emergency Response Fund has thus rightfully earned the trust and confidence of the UN Member States, who continue to show their commitments via pledges to the Fund. At the same time, sadly, humanitarian needs keep rising at an alarming rate, due to a variety of causes, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, wars and internal conflicts. The gap between needs and funding remains wide. We welcome further strengthening the Fund’s capacity to respond to humanitarian needs in a timely and effective manner. Broadening the donor base from both public and private sectors is another timely issue that needs to be acted upon.
The Estonian Government has supported the Fund since its establishment. Today, I am delighted to reaffirm our continuing support by announcing Estonia’s un-earmarked contribution of 100 000 euros for the activities of the Fund in 2020. The Central Emergency Response Fund provides life-saving assistance, and Estonia firmly believes that it is crucial that we help those most in need. Being an elected member for the Security Council in the coming years, Estonia is determined to do its part to make sure that we live up to the commitment of reaching the furthest behind first, as enshrined in 2030 Agenda. We must all work together to make it a reality.
I thank you.