? 8 December 2020 ? 10:00 AM — 01:00 PM (EST)
Virtual
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is convening the annual CERF High-level Pledging Event. The event is an opportunity to highlight the achievements of the Fund, to announce pledges for 2021, and collectively ensure that CERF’s level of funding continues towards the expanded funding target of $1 billion as endorsed by the General Assembly.
In 2020, the humanitarian needs rose to record levels, driven upwards by conflict, the consequences of climate change, and disease, including the health and socioeconomic impacts of COVID-19. The pandemic and its consequences have deepened vulnerability for the millions of people who already needed humanitarian assistance and has increased the overall number of people who need aid. Thanks to the commitment of United Nations Member States to helping people affected by crises and the generosity of donors, the CERF has provided vital funding to allow humanitarian actors to deliver life-saving assistance.
Since 2006, CERF has served as the world’s global emergency fund and has safeguarded the lives of millions of people. Member States have recognized the need for a strong CERF, with funding received from 127 Member States since the Fund’s inception. In 2019, 54 Member States contributed a record $831 million to CERF.
The 2020 CERF High-level Pledging Event will seek to galvanize increased commitment to CERF to ensure that the fund is fit to respond to the alarming humanitarian needs. Opened by Secretary-General, António Guterres, the CERF High-level Pledging Event will bring together senior representatives from UN Member States and Observers, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, foundations, and the private sector to express their commitments to the Fund. After a ceremonial segment, the pledging segment will offer Member States and other stakeholders an opportunity to announce pledges for 2021.
Original source: UNCERF
