Development partners and government officials are expected to discuss improved humanitarian responses at a crucial event in Geneva, Switzerland this week. Co-hosted by the Ethiopian government and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the primary goal is to secure pledges from both development partners and the government, according to officials.
Millions face hardship due to conflicts, economic downturns, climate shocks, and disease outbreaks, according to a UN statement. Last year’s aid diversion incident eroded donor confidence, calling the need for stronger accountability. Development partners will pledge to increase resources and advocate for sustainable development strategies. Collaboration with humanitarian organisations will be crucial for boosting the impact of aid on vulnerable populations.
Partners will urge the government to prioritise emergency funding, implement pro-poor policies, and strengthen accountability measures to prevent future aid diversions. Calls are expected to be made to streamline bureaucracy, ensuring tax exemptions for humanitarian goods, simplified visa/work permit processes, and the safe, voluntary movement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).
