USAID Administrator Samantha Power held a pivotal discussion with United Nations (UN) Secretary-General António Guterres, delving into the urgent humanitarian crises unfolding in several regions across the globe. Spokesperson Jessica Jennings, conveying the essence of the conversation, shed light on the multifaceted issues tackled during the meeting.
On May 7, Administrator Power voiced her concerns to Secretary-General Guterres regarding the dire humanitarian situations in Sudan, Gaza, Burkina Faso, and Haiti. (Quote: “Administrator Power urged the Secretary-General to continue to push the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (SAF) to facilitate humanitarian access to populations facing catastrophic food insecurity.”) Particularly focusing on Sudan, they stressed the immediate need for the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) to open the border crossing between Chad and Darfur to allow UN agencies to deliver essential aid to millions teetering on the edge of famine.
Turning their attention to Gaza, Administrator Power acknowledged the valiant efforts of UN staff working tirelessly in perilous conditions to save lives amidst the ongoing conflict. (Quote: “Administrator Power also thanked Secretary-General Guterres for the tireless efforts of UN staff in Gaza working at great personal risk around the clock to save lives and alleviate suffering.”) They discussed the severe humanitarian consequences of Israeli military operations in Rafah and emphasized the necessity of reopening southern Gaza crossings to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid to the distressed population.
Expressing grave concern over the deteriorating situation in Burkina Faso, Administrator Power and Secretary-General Guterres underscored the urgent need for humanitarian access to communities cut off from vital aid. (Quote: “Administrator Power and Secretary-General Guterres expressed deep concern over the deteriorating human rights and humanitarian situation.”)
Furthermore, the discussion delved into the ongoing commitment to the people of Haiti, emphasizing support for partners providing essential assistance to vulnerable communities. Additionally, Administrator Power and Secretary-General Guterres explored strategies to address the pervasive issue of lead exposure, recognizing it as a critical development opportunity with far-reaching implications. (Quote: “Finally, Administrator Power and Secretary-General Guterres discussed tackling lead exposure as an outsized development opportunity for an issue that affects one in two children in low- and middle-income countries and kills 1.6 million people each year.”)
The dialogue between Administrator Power and Secretary-General Guterres underscores the pressing need for concerted international efforts to address humanitarian crises and promote sustainable development worldwide.