Bernard J. Durkan
Question:98 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to address the issue of war and starvation in Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18958/04]
View answerThursday, 24 June 2004
Questions (100, 101)
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:104 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which humanitarian aid has been directed to the most sensitive or pressing areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18964/04]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 104 together.
I am deeply conscious of the enormity of the challenges facing African nations as they strive to build the foundations of economic and social development, often in a climate of hunger and warfare. The reduction of poverty, hunger and conflict in Africa is, I believe, one of the most important tasks to which the international community can dedicate itself in the 21st century.
Conflict has many causes and many manifestations. However, it is nurtured, fed and strengthened by poverty, inequality and exclusion. The majority of wars occur in the poorest countries and they mostly affect the poorest people, particularly women and children. Conflict presents complex challenges for us all but our efforts must be clearly focused on the underlying causes. Ireland's development co-operation programme seeks to address the root causes of conflict by ensuring that conflict sensitivity is reflected in all instruments of development support and partnership. Furthermore, our engagement with and support for civil society is a key element of our programme.
The Government responds in two ways to the humanitarian and development needs of Africa. In the short term we focus on saving lives in the most effective way possible, through direct assistance via the UN system and international agencies as well as non-governmental organisations, NGOs. In the longer term, Ireland's development programme tackles the structural reasons underlying endemic poverty.
Ireland's emergency humanitarian aid programme supports the short-term interventions designed to save lives and rebuild livelihoods in the immediate aftermath of natural and man-made disasters. This humanitarian assistance is founded on the principles of a commitment to international humanitarian law, a commitment to needs-based programming and regular evaluations of humanitarian operations. Such an approach ensures that Ireland's humanitarian assistance is directed to where needs are greatest. To date this year, we have engaged deeply in a number of conflict-affected zones, including Liberia, Afghanistan, Sudan and Sierra Leone.
Ireland's humanitarian programme is implemented through valued partners, such as NGOs, UN agencies and international organisations. These partners have the experience and capacity to deliver assistance to the most vulnerable in times of crisis and stress. While relief operations for major emergencies are supported, particular attention is also given to targeting humanitarian assistance at the so-called "forgotten or silent emergencies", especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Last year, the Government's humanitarian assistance to African countries amounted to more than €20 million.
If we are to break the cyclical nature of food insecurity, disease and conflict in Africa, the underlying structural problems affecting poverty and stability must also be addressed through longer-term development assistance. Ireland has strong development partnerships with six countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Through these partnerships Ireland fully engages with the governments, donors, EU and UN agencies on the basis of poverty reduction strategy plans, PRSPs. The PRSPs outline how each country prioritises resources and policies with the objective of reducing poverty. These programmes contain a strong governance element throughout to assist in the building of democratic structures, the rule of law and a culture of respect for human rights.
This comprehensive and African-owned approach by donors, governments and civil societies stands the best chance of reversing the downward spiral of economic and social indicators in sub-Saharan Africa, reducing conflict and facilitating real and positive change in the lives of millions of Africans.