Statement at High-Level Pledging Event for Yemen

State Secretary Henrik Thune's statement at a High-Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

  • This year we add another year of devastating conflict in Yemen that shatters the lives of its population. Unbelievably, two-thirds of Yemenis are dependent on aid to survive. The human suffering is enormous. 
  • Norway is deeply alarmed by the recent military escalation, in particular the increase in civilian casualties on all sides of the conflict. We are convinced that the humanitarian crisis will continue to deepen unless there is an end to the violence.
  • I would like to thank the UN, Sweden and Switzerland in particular for convening this important event.
  • Norway stands firmly behind the efforts of the UN Special Envoy and welcome the start of consultations with political and civil society groups. We will continue to be vocal that it is essential to include women in all efforts.
  • We urge the parties to the conflict to fully respect international humanitarian and human rights law. This includes ensuring safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to all people in need. Protection of civilians must be at the core.
  • Norway continues to give high priority to the humanitarian response in Yemen. I am pleased to announce a contribution of 225 million Norwegian kroner in 2022. Further contributions will be considered. Norway also provides substantial core funding to key humanitarian organisations and is among the top donors to the CERF.
  • And let me conclude by extending my sincere thanks to all our humanitarian partners for the invaluable job you all do in Yemen under very difficult circumstances.