New multi-year framework agreements with OCHA and CERF

Einar Gunnarsson, Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations in Geneva, and Ramesh Rajasingham, Head and Representative of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance (OCHA) in Geneva, signed two new multi-year framework agreements outlining Iceland’s continued flexible and predictable financial support to OCHA and the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), two long-standing humanitarian partners of the Icelandic Government.

“Iceland is once again delivering on its commitment to be a reliable partner to key humanitarian organizations. In the context of mounting humanitarian needs globally, it is critical that we come together in support of the crucial work our partners do in delivering life- saving assistance around the world”, says Foreign Minister Bjarni Benediktsson.

The new agreements, signed on 18 January in Geneva, stipulate at least 120 million ISK annual contribution in support of each organization´s core mandates over the period 2024 to 2028.  The agreement with OCHA also includes Iceland’s contributions to Country-Based Pooled Funds, and cooperation with the United Nations Disaster and Assessment Coordination System (UNDAC) and the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG).

“In these times of appalling humanitarian needs, a fast and well-coordinated global response has never been more important. Iceland is a longstanding partner in humanitarian affairs, and I am deeply thankful to them for their renewed multiyear commitments to my office, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and to the Central Emergency Response Fund that we manage. Your funding will allow us and our partners to reach millions of the most vulnerable people in the world”, says Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths.