World Vision welcomes the UN’s COVID-19 Global Humanitarian Response plan, calling for US$2billion for a global response. It highlights the devastating impact a coronavirus outbreak could have in countries already struggling with existing humanitarian crises.
World Vision is urging global leaders to back the UN’s plan and support aid groups that have field workers on the ground in vulnerable areas. World Vision is working alongside the UN and governments to combat the coronavirus outbreak around the world. The aid organisation aims to reach 11 million people, over half of them children.
Isabel Gomes, World Vision’s Global Director of Humanitarian Operations, says “Coronavirus is having a devastating impact on people all over the world, but it could be catastrophic for families living in war-torn and poverty-stricken countries. Those living in places with poor medical facilities, and where children are already at risk of things like malnutrition and exploitation, will pay the highest price.”
The countries World Vision is prioritising in its coronavirus response are: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Kenya, Lebanon, mainland China, Mongolia, Philippines, Senegal, South Africa, Syria, and Thailand.
The charity’s frontline workers are promoting preventative measures like hand washing, supporting health systems and workers, and providing support to children with increased vulnerability as a result of the virus.
World Vision’s experts have warned that the outbreak could cripple children’s education, and result in increased hunger, poverty and violence.
“Coronavirus threatens to devastate families living in the world’s hardest places. We urge world leaders to ensure that they are supporting countries which are at risk of collapsing if left to cope alone,” Gomes says.”
“And make no mistake – coronavirus threatens mental as well as physical health. Response plans must include psychosocial support for children, and strengthen protection systems which keep them safe.”
“This is crucial if we are to mitigate a catastrophe for children and their families.”
Contact:
Gabriel Thomas, News Media Advisor, World Vision New Zealand
Gabriel.Thomas@worldvision.org.nz | +64 21 360 098