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WFP and Switzerland support Karabakh Refugees in Armenia

Yerevan– The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a CHF 500,610 (approximately US $555,000) contribution from the Government of Switzerland to support thousands of families who have fled military hostilities in the Karabakh region and sought refuge in Armenia. The additional funds, which Switzerland has been providing since November 1, are intended to provide emergency humanitarian aid to those most in need.

"Switzerland's contribution will help WFP address the immediate needs of the refugees in Syunik and Gegharkunik provinces, enabling us to provide both essential food and much-needed psychosocial support,” said WFP Representative and Country Director in Armenia Nanna Skau. “We are thankful to the people and Government of Switzerland for their commitment to support those in need."

"Above all, we are very satisfied that this support - although it is part of a longer-term vision of rebuilding life prospects - can be provided without much delay," said Werner Thut, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Switzerland in Armenia, who is also responsible for Swiss cooperation in Armenia.

This initiative is in line with WFP’s project, "Resilience and Economic Recovery of Border Communities in Armenia" and follows a two-pronged approach, focusing on meeting immediate food needs, while also fostering socio-economic recovery and integration of refugees. Launched in 2022 and targeting 15 border settlements in three regions, activities under the project include cash assistance, employment support, social work support, boosting of agricultural income and empowering communities to build resources and skills.

More than 100,600 people have fled into Armenia as the conflict intensified last September and they all face significant challenges in securing essential needs including food and psychological support to cope with the trauma and stress they have endured.

WFP closely collaborates with both national and international partners in Armenia to support Government efforts and ensure the effective delivery of food assistance to the people.

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The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

 

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Contact

For more information, please contact:

Gohar Sargsyan, WFP/Armenia,

gohar.sargsyan@wfp.org,

Mob: (374 91) 45 55 564

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