UN: Humanitarian Aid on the Rise Due to COVID-19

COVID-19 havoc is surging in ways that the UN fears for the level of humanitarian aid needed that they cannot meet. Corona Virus is in itself destroying livelihoods. From the loss of jobs, schools closing, and even causing economic constraints to different countries worldwide. As a result, poverty levels are going to hit new levels depending on one’s residence. The already poverty-stricken countries, especially in the African country, are facing it rough. Meeting basic needs is now a struggle that, if not addressed, the virus might not be the only cause of death. Instead, people might lose lives as a result of the effects of the pandemic.

Humanitarian aid on-demand now more than ever.

On Tuesday, the Global Humanitarian review for the year 2021 by the UN was released. The findings were not at all that pleasing. In fact, the report revealed one in 33 persons would be unable to meet their common basic needs. That is food, access to clean water, and sanitation. Apparently, this a 40 percent increase from last year. The countries that need quick attention include Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ethiopia.

How did we end up here?

The pandemic caught everyone by surprise. There was no time for preparation. Decisions quickly implemented in the hopes of averting the spread of the virus. Lockdowns were initiated, and economic activities stalled. Over time, the effects made themselves vivid to every individual. Food stores are slowly emptying, and people are losing jobs. Panic was all over as the virus continues to spread. The endearing hardships piling up little by little, eventually has brought people’s lives on the edge.

With the current ease of the lockdown measures in various countries across the globe, the impact is now hard felt. People are struggling to meet ends meet. Meanwhile, there is a rate of inflation that is promoting unbearable livelihoods. Yet, the crisis is taking root once more. Moreover, the humanitarian aid budgets are facing financial constraints amidst the worsening of the pandemic.

Another surging pandemic

COVID-19 has birthed more problems. Infectious diseases have been on the rise lately. All efforts put in place, especially on Malaria, Tuberculosis, and HIV, seem to go down the drain. With COVID so much profound now, access to resources to help fight the diseases are facing hindrances. Life expectancy is, therefore, decreasing and poverty rates increasing. In other words, we are facing double portions in hazardous aspects.

In the Meantime

However, all hope is not lost. The UN office for the coordination of Humanitarian Affairs still has a mile to go. Form the humanitarian chief Mark Lowcock, the head of OCHA, 160 million people can access their help. However, they are facing a major crisis after the Gulf countries withdrawing their funds. The gulf countries are the major donors. As a result, clinics have had to shut down, and a cut in aid programs implemented. Yet the list is in dire need of their help is increasing daily. OCHA has highlighted Haiti, Nigeria, South Sudan, Ukraine, Venezuela, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe.

More:

• Mercy Ship; Africa Humanitarian service.
• African Nations Reopening Airspaces Despite Rising Covid-19 Cases