The European Commission has announced a package of €35.1 million in emergency aid and medium-term development assistance to support the Venezuelan people and the neighbouring countries affected by this crisis. This new package is for those who are in the country and those who fled.
Out of the funding announced, €5 million in humanitarian aid will provide health assistance, food and nutrition, water and protection for the most vulnerable mostly inside Venezuela. Another €5 million will support conflict-prevention measures to reduce social tensions and violence and protect people displaced by the crisis.
€18.1 million in development assistance will address food and nutrition security, water, sanitation and hygiene within the country, as well as the socio-economic inclusion of migrants and support for host communities in neighbouring countries. Furthermore, an additional €7 million to meet further needs of those communities is being made available.
High Representative/Vice-President of Commission, Federica Mogherini said, “Venezuela and Europe have always been incredibly close. We have cultural, historic and family ties with them. Our peoples are friends and partners. Venezuela’s neighbours are showing great solidarity: we are with them, as partners, to support their hospitality while also strengthening the local communities’ economy and resilience.”
The European Commission’s humanitarian aid department has been providing emergency support to Venezuela since 2016 focussed on providing medicines, food and protection. Additionally, the Commission aims at building up the ability of vulnerable communities and disaster responders to prepare for, and address the natural hazards plaguing Venezuela and the region.