PLAN TO PROTECT VULNERABLE PEOPLE IN THE WAKE OF HUMANITARIAN CRISES

Melissa Parke, Minister for International Development

PLAN TO PROTECT VULNERABLE PEOPLE IN THE WAKE OF HUMANITARIAN CRISES

29 July 2013

Minister for International Development Melissa Parke today released a strategy that will guide the efforts of Australia’s aid program in protecting the rights of people left vulnerable by humanitarian disasters.

AusAID’s Protection in Humanitarian Action Framework will outline the agency’s approach to protecting the safety, dignity and rights of conflict and disaster-affected populations.

It explains what AusAID means by protection in humanitarian action, defines priorities and guides how AusAID will deliver humanitarian action through partners. The Framework has been developed through extensive consultations with government, humanitarian and non-government organisation partners.

“Australia is one of the world’s most responsive donors in the wake of humanitarian disasters,” Ms Parke said.

“The current crisis in and on the borders of Syria is a case in point and, in response, Australia has recently announced a further $21.5 million in humanitarian assistance.

“As we commit to providing all possible relief, we must also commit to ensuring human rights law is upheld in every way possible.”

Violations of human rights can be rife in the chaos caused during humanitarian disasters. Families are often separated and communities break down.

“Women and children are left particularly vulnerable to sexual violence, trafficking and recruitment into armed forces,” Ms Parke said. “People with disability and the elderly are also at risk of exclusion and other forms of harm.”

With the release of this Framework, AusAID is committing to increase support for protection in humanitarian action, through both funding and advocacy. To implement this framework effectively, AusAID will continue to develop the capacity of its staff and partners to better understand and incorporate protection into humanitarian programs.

At the end of 2012, more than 45 million people had been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence and human rights violations.

AusAID will work with its partners including governments, non-government organisations and the United Nations to prioritise the safety and dignity of affected populations.

“Guided by the principles espoused in the Framework we will seek to promote ways of working that protect those at particular risk of serious harm,” said Ms Parke.

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Media Enquiries: Rachel Maycock