16/3/2007
60 million euros for Darfur and Chad

The EU has adopted two humanitarian aid plans worth 60 million euros to help vulnerable populations in Darfur and refugees and displaced people in Chad.

A total of 15 million euros will be allotted to assistance for refugees, displaced people and vulnerable resident communities in the east and the south of Chad.

The remaining 45 million will focus on the most vulnerable populations throughout Sudan, especially in Darfur and the south of the country.

Louis Michel, Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Aid, said: "The additional humanitarian aid Europeans have mobilised is badly needed by millions of suffering people who bear the brunt of the violence in Darfur and beyond.

“There is no question about our willingness to help the victims of the conflict but the work of relief organisations on the ground has become increasingly difficult and dangerous. This is simply not acceptable.

“ Humanitarian workers provide relief impartially to those who need it most. The Sudanese authorities and rebel movements have an obligation to facilitate their work and ensure their safety."

A major concern is the increasing difficulty in implementing relief efforts.

With the additional 60 million euros, the Commission aims to enhance the protection of civilians and provide basic life-saving assistance (water supplies, treatment for malnourished children, emergency drug kits, mobile clinics, measures to tackle cholera, hygiene products and shelter).

A total of €110 million has been earmarked for relief assistance in Sudan and Chad during 2007.

Up to four million people are affected by the conflict in Darfur and around two million are displaced.

Some 230,000 have sought refuge in Chad.

At the same time, because of the spill-over of the fighting into Chad, thousands of Chadians have crossed the border in the other direction and are now refugees in Darfur.