Central Emergency Response Fund High-Level Pledging Event

Statement by H.E. Jörundur Valtýsson
Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations
Central Emergency Response Fund High-Level Pledging Event
December 6th, 2023

Mr. Chair,  

Let me begin by commending the Emergency Response Coordinator and his team for their steadfast commitment to ensure that life-saving assistance is promptly delivered where and when it is most needed. In face of unprecedented humanitarian needs, the role of the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) is of paramount importance.  

This year, CERF continued to prove its value, including through anticipatory action and complementarity with OCHA’s Country-Based Pooled Funds. We welcome the establishment of a dedicated climate action account announced at COP28. This is an important initiative to support time-critical action for climate emergencies. 

For Iceland, CERF remains a dependable funding mechanism for rapid, co-ordinated, and effective humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable. As a longstanding advocate for women’s rights and equality, Iceland continues to encourage sustained efforts against gender-based violence in all allocations. 

I am pleased to announce Iceland’s additional contribution of 100 million Icelandic Krona to the CERF - bringing Iceland’s total contribution this year to 220 million Icelandic Krona. I am also pleased to inform you that Iceland is entering its third multi-year framework agreement with CERF, allowing for continued predictable annual allocations over the course of the next five years.

Thank you.