In response to the escalating crisis in Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh), the European Union (EU) is bolstering its humanitarian funding with an additional 5 million euros.
The conflict and the subsequent ceasefire have led to a significant influx of people from Nagorno-Karabakh into Armenia, with approximately 13,500 refugees having already crossed the border. Simultaneously, Nagorno-Karabakh is grappling with severe food shortages and a lack of access to basic necessities such as electricity and water.
The 5 million euros in humanitarian funding comprises 500,000 euros in emergency support, which was announced last week, and 4.5 million euros in new funding. This financial assistance will serve two key purposes:
- Assisting people displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia: This aid will be administered through various EU humanitarian partners operating in Armenia and is expected to benefit around 25,000 individuals. The primary focus will be on providing cash assistance, shelter, food security, and livelihood support.
- Aiding vulnerable individuals in Nagorno-Karabakh: This aid will be channeled through the International Committee of the Red Cross and is intended to provide support to approximately 60,000 people. It will encompass provisions such as food, medical care, shelter, and logistics.
Furthermore, the EU is dispatching a humanitarian expert to the region, who will collaborate closely with humanitarian partners on-site to ensure a swift and coordinated response to the ongoing crisis.
