Response to International Humanitarian Crises
Objective
To assist with Scotland's response to international humanitarian crises.
Programme Overview & Process
The Scottish Government recognises the significant contribution that Scotland already makes to international crises through the work of DFID, NGOs and individuals in Scotland. Additionally, Scottish Ministers may wish to respond to some international humanitarian crises in recognition of Scotland's role as a responsible nation. The following approach will be considered for those crises that result in an appeal by the Disasters Emergencies Committee (DEC):
- Scottish Ministers, on behalf of the Scottish people, will express Scotland's condolences to those affected most directly by the disaster;
- Scottish Ministers will endeavour to raise the profile of related fund-raising campaigns wherever possible and encourage the contributions of Scots and Scottish organisations to relief efforts through media activity;
- Where possible, the Scottish Government will consider temporary secondments of Scottish Government staff to back fill posts and meet immediate administrative needs in Scotland;
- Officials in the Scottish Government's International Development Team will liaise with DEC and take the lead in co-ordinating the Scottish Government's response;
- Decisions regarding direct financial support to enable established organisations in Scotland to respond will be considered on a case-by-case basis and informed by the advice of DFID and where possible the advice of the country involved to identify appropriate support and avoid duplication of effort. Any contribution will be in the form of one-off and short-term support and would not constitute a widening of the policy priorities in the medium or longer-term. No funds have been specifically allocated to this activity from the IDF.