Council of Ministers approve four million euros more in aid for victims of conflicts in Syria

“The Austrian federal government is making another four million euros from the Foreign Disaster Relief Fund available to Syria“, said foreign minister Karin Kneissl following the decision taken by the Council of Ministers. “I already indicated in February which partner organisations and contributions would most efficiently provide humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflicts in Syria”, emphasised Karin Kneissl.

Thousands of people were killed or wounded in mine explosions last year alone, illustrating the urgent need for a mine-free world. Today’s International Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action Day remembers the victims and aims to call on the International Community to continue the efforts for an eradication of anti-personnel mines.

Council of Ministers pledged further humanitarian aid for Syrian refugees

“Supported by UNHCR, we are providing concrete aid for the victims of the Syria conflict and are sending an important signal that Austria will continue its tradition as a dedicated humanitarian aid donor”, said Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl in a statement on the decision of the first Council of Ministers session of the new Federal Government to mobilise a further 150,000 euros of aid from the Foreign Disaster Fund for Syrian refugees.

Foreign Ministry announces allocation of new funds for East Africa from the Foreign Disaster Fund (FDF)

Austria strengthens commitment to humanitarian aid

“In 2016, Austria provided 55 million euros of humanitarian aid, the highest amount to date. These funds allowed us to help a total of 2.3 million people”, said Federal Minister Sebastian Kurz in a statement to mark World Humanitarian Day. More and more people are becoming caught up in humanitarian crises and are reliant on aid. The primary cause is armed conflicts, with prolonged conflicts or natural disasters.