Page 367 - 100 Reflections that Crafted Geneva International_V-Petrovsky_private special edition

Bringing the Concept to Life

support and mobilizing the international community for help. All this with a
view to ensuring a rapid recovery from the disaster at hand and to minimizing
the element of human suffering involved.

According to recent information from the Office of the Coordination of
Humanitarian Affairs, in 1998 alone, an estimated US$ 2, 160 million of hu-
manitarian assistance was requested to support 12 8 million people suffering as
a result of complex emergencies. The victims of 61 natural and environmental
disasters were assisted in 1998, and the international community provided over
US$ 1 billion in aid (including bilateral aid).

In conclusion, it is clear that human welfare and security must continue to
be the centerpiece of ail of our actions. Humanitarian law and the simple
concern for the basic well-being of all members of the human family is the
framework within which we operate. In conclusion I would like to stress that it
is important to remember that not only the fundamental nature of the
approach that is taken but also its application in the field that will determine
the result felt by those in need. In this respect the cooperation of all of the
members of the international community including regional organizations, the
ICRC and NGOs is of vital significance. This is the only way to achieve a more
humane global order.

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