Pakistan urges UNFPA to scale up flood response

New York, 5 September 2022 (TDI): Pakistan has urged the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to scale up its flood response in Pakistan. Moreover, Pakistan has requested UNFPA to offer vital services and supplies regarding reproductive health care.

Pakistan urges @UNFPA to ensure maternal health, reproductive services for flood-displaced women https://t.co/pGLe7tVk02

— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) September 5, 2022

Notably, among the 33 million internally displaced people due to floods, there are 650,000 pregnant women. Hence, there is a dire need for medical services for them.

Statement of Ambassador Munir Akram

Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations (UN), Ambassador Munir Akram presented these demands.

He was speaking at a United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNFPA, and UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) session. Pakistan’s UNFPA Country Programme (2023-2027) was approved.

The Permanent Representative of Pakistan stated that approximately 8.2 million of the displaced people are women of reproductive age.

Moreover, up to 73,000 women are due to give birth in the coming month. This will require highly competent birth attendants, infant care, and assistance.

The Ambassador of Pakistan stressed that the effectiveness of every program or project is dependent on the “willful and determined” engagement of the target audience.

He also underlined that cultural peculiarities and vulnerabilities along with national interests must be taken into account when executing the programme.

He stated that the Covid-19 outbreak, skyrocketing fuel and food costs, and security issues have significantly hampered the capacity of Pakistan. It is not able to meet the food, medical, and sanitary demands of the people.

Acknowledging that US$ 23 million of the total US$ 59 million assigned for the Country Programme will be provided through regular resources. While the remaining US$ 36 million will be given through other resources.

Ambassador Munir expressed optimism that UNFPA would be able to acquire financial assistance from collaborators and campaign contributors to make sure the execution of its selected priority areas.

Also, the Permanent Representative of Pakistan remarked “We hope UNFPA will work with us to mitigate the impacts of climate change, both now and in the longer term, especially on the young female population.”