Oxfam Scotland welcomed today’s announcement by the First Minister that the Scottish Government will release £120,000 from its Humanitarian Emergency Fund to help Rohingya people who have fled to Bangladesh.
Nearly 370,000 people crossed into Bangladesh in the last four weeks, doubling the number of people seeking refuge in the south east of the country.
Angus Nelson, Head of Fundraising at Oxfam Scotland, said: “It’s very welcome news that the Scottish Government is committing money to help alleviate the escalating humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh.
“Hundreds of thousands of people face a desperate situation, unable to access clean drinking water and food. They are homeless and hungry following a long and treacherous journey across the border. Many are now sleeping under open skies, by roadsides and in forests, with no protection.
“We urge other governments and donors to follow Scotland’s lead and act immediately.”
Oxfam is responding in Bangladesh and plans s to help over 200,000 people with clean drinking water, portable toilets and sanitation facilities, and plastic sheets for shelter.
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For more information please contact Rebecca Lozza, Media and Communications Officer, Oxfam Scotland, on 0141 285 8875 / 07880785159 or RLozza1@Oxfam.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
- The Scottish Government’s £1 million Humanitarian Emergency Fund, launched in April 2017, is intended to provide immediate, life-saving aid in the aftermath of a crisis. Oxfam Scotland was selected as a member of the expert panel which advises the Scottish Government on how the fund should be spent.
- The funding will be allocated to members of the Humanitarian Emergency Fund following an assessment process.