Belgium Makes Inaugural €5 Million Contribution to UN Humanitarian Fund for Sudan
Brussels, The Gulf Observer: Belgium has, for the first time, pledged €5 million to the United Nations’ humanitarian fund for Sudan for the period 2025–2026, Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot announced on Friday during a visit to the Ura Refugee Camp in western Ethiopia. The camp currently hosts around 14,000 Sudanese refugees under the joint supervision of the UNHCR and the World Food Programme.
Minister Prévot described Sudan as “the world’s most significant ongoing humanitarian crisis,” underscoring Belgium’s heightened focus on humanitarian relief. Despite a 25% budget cut imposed on Belgium’s Development Cooperation department by the governing coalition, the country has safeguarded €170 million annually for humanitarian aid, with part of the funds now directed toward supporting Sudanese refugees.
Prévot emphasized that the strategic allocation of resources aims to foster long-term opportunities for refugees, ease migration pressures, and prevent the escalation of future conflicts, ultimately contributing to global stability and European security. During his visit, he witnessed the acute shortages of food, water, and healthcare that continue to affect Sudanese refugees in Ethiopia.
In addition to its first-time contribution for Sudan, Belgium has also strengthened its support for the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), increasing its annual contribution by €3 million to reach €20 million. CERF plays a crucial role in financing emergency responses worldwide, with a substantial share directed toward Sudan.
Belgium’s renewed commitments reflect its determination to uphold humanitarian responsibility, reinforce resilience, and support international efforts to address the widespread displacement and conflict stemming from Sudan.
