August 27, 2008 Toronto – The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, announced today that Canada is providing $2 million in additional funding to assist those affected by the conflict in Georgia. These funds follow the $1 million initially announced by Minister Oda on August 12 due to the outbreak of violence in South Ossetia.
"As humanitarian needs mount in Georgia, Canada is increasing its support for those who have been displaced and are suffering in the aftermath of this terrible conflict," said Minister Oda. "Working with the international community, Canada continues to monitor the situation to ensure its aid efforts are effectively meeting the needs of the civilian population."
The outbreak of hostilities between Georgia and Russia over the Georgian province of South Ossetia on August 8 led to the displacement of an estimated 159,000 people from conflict zones in South Ossetia and other parts of Georgia. The delivery of assistance to some conflict-affected regions remains difficult due to the ongoing presence of military forces.
"We are pleased by initial reports that humanitarian access to affected regions in Georgia is improving," said the Honourable David Emerson, Minister of Foreign Affairs. "However, we reiterate our call to all parties to immediately facilitate and guarantee full, safe and unhindered access to all conflict areas, including South Ossetia, for all humanitarian actors. Access is critical to provide urgent assistance to populations in need and for humanitarian agencies to undertake essential needs assessments. There can be no further delays."
Due to the sudden onset of the crisis, displaced communities were forced to flee their homes quickly and are in grave need of food, water, household items, sanitation facilities and medical care. Canada's contributions will provide support to humanitarian agencies responding to these needs, including $1 million to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, $700,000 to UNICEF, $500,000 to the World Food Programme and $300,000 to World Vision Canada. These funds will supplement the $500,000 already provided to the International Committee of the Red Cross, as part of the $1 million announced on August 12.
