How has the response of international donors been so far?
Donors were slow to respond on a scale commensurate with the scale of the disaster, although the picture is starting to improve somewhat. Of the UN’s appeal for $460 million, about 70% (nearly $300 million) has been committed (as of 26 August). We urge donors to convert pledges to money in the bank as soon as possible. It’s also important to note that the UN’s appeal was prepared in the days immediately following the crisis, when the extent of the needs was only just beginning to be understood. The number of people estimated to be in need of direct humanitarian assistance has significantly increased since then, and the appeal will shortly be revised. So, 70% funded should not be seen as 70% of real funding requirements having been met, even just for these first three months. Much more is still needed. Additionally, billions will be required for longer-term reconstruction.
