Brussels: Europe and the Arabs
Last February, the European Union organized 13 humanitarian air bridges to Yemen to combat the health emergency. The European Commission in Brussels said, “The European Union stands with Yemenis in need because the ongoing health emergency poses a threat to human life and puts the capacity of the local health system under severe pressure. I thank our partners in humanitarian field for their tremendous dedication and coordination.” According to what the European statement quoted from Janez Lenarčić, Commissioner for Crisis Management
In the European statement, “to respond to the outbreak of life-threatening infectious diseases in Yemen and the subsequent health emergency among the affected population, the European Union organized 13 humanitarian air bridge flights to provide vital assistance to civilians this month.”
These flights have enabled humanitarian partners to cover the immediate needs of the population and support Yemen's preparedness for future outbreaks of infectious diseases such as cholera.
The flights primarily served Aden and Sanaa airports, carrying more than 163 tons of aid including medicines, vaccines and other medical materials. Aid from European and European Union aid stockpiles in Dubai was directed to Yemen via Nairobi.
Yemen is one of the world's largest ongoing humanitarian crises, with an estimated 18.2 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and protection services. More than 4.5 million people have been displaced over the years, often multiple times, while nearly 17 million people face acute food insecurity. Malnutrition has also reached unprecedented levels, among the highest rates in the world.
The health system is on the brink of collapse, with vaccination campaigns facing increasing challenges due to access restrictions, leading to recurring epidemics and infectious diseases, including measles, polio and cholera.
Since 2015, the European Union has contributed around €1.5 billion to respond to the crisis in Yemen. This includes more than €1 billion in humanitarian aid and €487 million in development aid.
We support those directly affected by conflict, disaster or displacement, as well as families affected by food insecurity and health crises. Through our partners, we continue to help people across the country including those living in active conflict zones and hard-to-reach areas.
In 2023, the European Union allocated more than €145 million in humanitarian aid to help those affected by the conflict in Yemen, with a focus on the most vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.