Vanuatu: EU releases funds to assist victims of cyclone Pam

The storm in Vanuatu was reported as powerful as Typhoon Hayian, 

which caused massive destruction in the Philippines in November 2013. 

Photo Credit: Arlynn Aquino EU/ECHO

In its immediate response to the devastation caused by the tropical cyclone Pam in Vanuatu, the European Union is making available an initial € 1 million (around Kina 3 million) to help in the emergency relief efforts. The European Union is also deploying two experts to assess the humanitarian needs and liaise with partner organisations operating on the ground. "It is with great sadness that I learn about the tragic loss of life and scale of destruction caused by cyclone Pam. My thoughts go to the victims and their families. The European Union stands by the people of Vanuatu in this hour of need and offers its immediate assistance", said Christos Stylianides, European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management. The EU-funding will contribute towards the most urgent needs in Vanuatu, with particular emphasis on the most vulnerable victims. The assistance will be implemented through humanitarian partner organisations and cover basic needs such as shelter, clean water and medicine. Commissioner Stylianides, currently in Japan to participate in the World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction, added: "This storm is a stark reminder of the gravity and urgency of the challenge facing the international community. In a world increasingly prone to natural catastrophes, we must work closer together to better prepare for and reduce the impact of such disasters."