Hosted by the European Commission in cooperation with the Global Network Against Food Crises and the Sahel and West Africa Club, the purpose of the event was to highlight the deterioration of the humanitarian situation and food security in the region. Donor countries were invited to announce pledges of humanitarian contributions.

Addressing the meeting, State Secretary Raščan expressed his concern about the growing humanitarian needs as a result of armed conflicts, climate change, the global health crisis and rising food prices. However, violations of international humanitarian law and humanitarian principles continue to occur, so Dr Raščan called for humanitarian access and the safety of humanitarian workers to be guaranteed. He pointed out that if the region is to enjoy stability in the long term, the international community needs to focus its assistance on education, economic empowerment, health care and women’s and girls’ rights. 

As a member of the International Coalition for the Sahel, Slovenia is actively committed to ensuring security in the region and addressing humanitarian needs. Slovenia’s humanitarian contribution will help provide emergency food assistance in the central Sahel.