Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

DPRK

Humanitarian community seeks $14 million to assist DPRK flood victims

(New York: 27 August 2007) The United Nations is appealing for $14 million to assist almost one million people in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) severely affected by widespread flooding, land- and mudslides since 14 August.

An estimated 960,000 people have been affected by the flooding, which killed more than 450 people and made 170,000 homeless across nine provinces, including the capital Pyongyang. With thousands of people living in temporary shelter, ensuring potable er supplies and preventing further cases of er-borne diseases are key priorities.

"United Nations agencies and European Union Programme Support Units are working closely with the Government of DPRK to bring urgent assistance to those affected by this disaster," said Margareta Wahlström, the United Nations Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, speaking at the launch of the Appeal in New York. "I urge the international community to respond swiftly and generously to this appeal, to prevent further suffering."

This Flash Appeal aims to complement and coordinate the national Government's response to meet the most pressing needs of the most vulnerable over the next three months. The projects identified in the Appeal will focus on urgent provision of essential medicines, clean er and food.

Joint assessments undertaken by the Government and international actors highlighted major damage to some 240,000 homes, basic medical services, and key infrastructure. Significant damage to crops has been reported, adding to ongoing concerns regarding food insecurity.

"Support must be provided now to provide the most vulnerable with basic food items, ensure access to essential medicines, and prevent malnutrition", said Jean-Pierre de Margerie, the United Nations Acting Resident Coordinator for DPRK. "The humanitarian community is relying on international donors to fund this Flash Appeal to ensure that the most vulnerable communities urgently receive the assistance they need."

For further information, please call: Stephanie Bunker, OCHA-New York, +1 917 367 5126, mobile +1 917 892 1679; Dizery Salim, OCHA-New York, +1 +1 917 367 9262; Elisabeth Byrs, OCHA-Geneva, +41 22 917 2653, mobile, +41 79 473 4570.

OCHA press releases are available at http://ochaonline.un.org or www.reliefweb.int.

Disclaimer

UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
To learn more about OCHA's activities, please visit https://www.unocha.org/.