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(New York, 7 June 2020): UN Humanitarian Chief Mark Lowcock today released US$40 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to help tackle health emergencies in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).  

Today, the IASC Principals issued a joint statement, expressing alarm about the situation in Yemen, as COVID-19 is spreading rapidly amid unabated conflict and lac of funding for humanitarian programmes. Against a backdrop of mounting humanitarian needs, especially for families displaced by the fighting, official COVID-19 case figures as of 28 May stand at 253 cases and 50 deaths. Further testing and analysis are required to provide a true picture of the epidemic and the case fatality rate in Yemen.

In line with the security measures and in some cases total lockdown, community engagement is very challenging for the humanitarian workers when nobody is moving around. Therefore, how to reach out to the communities and protect? What is the most relevant and fit for purpose risk communication about prevention and how much can be done when working from home? How to adapt AAP approaches and tools in light of the COVID-19 measures and what communication/messaging in support of the Government strategy the humanitarian community can support with?

13 May 2020 Mental health is at the core of our humanity. It enables us to lead rich and fulfilling lives and to participate in our communities. But the COVID-19 virus is not only attacking our physical health; it is also increasing psychological suffering.   Grief at the loss of loved ones… Shock at the loss of jobs… Isolation and restrictions on movement… Difficult family dynamics… Uncertainty and fear for the future…

‘Saying No to Sexual Misconduct’ is an interactive and innovative learning package that aims to raise awareness among IASC partner staff and ensure they have the skills and tools to define, detect and respond to sexual misconduct. This one-day in-person training uses case studies, testimonies, group discussions, creative team and role-play activities, powerful videos and thought-provoking questions to promote dialogue and learning.

This Interim Guidance outlines how key public health and social measures needed to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread and the impact of the disease can be adapted for use in low capacity and humanitarian settings.

Following discussions at IASC Principals meeting on 9 April 2020, UNICEF and OCHA have produced some communication content to support our collective advocacy efforts for safe and fast-tracked access for health and aid workers and supplies at borders and in countries. The graphics are available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/wh3tkf12z7wccmd/AAAfHQTW9T- HrRF5Zs2ZAC0ga?dl=0

This episode of CGD Conversations on COVID-19 and Development has been aired on Tuesday, April 28 at 12pm ET. 

Following discussions at IASC Principals meeting on 9 April 2020, UNICEF and OCHA have produced some communication content to support our collective advocacy efforts for safe and fast-tracked access for health and aid workers and supplies at borders and in countries.