Voices from Yemen: Delivering AID in a Conflict Zone | Dialogue with Ibrahim El Haddad from OCHA

DevelopmentAid Dialogues

Yemen grapples with a staggering humanitarian crisis, leaving millions dependent on aid for survival. Delivering that assistance, however, is fraught with challenges.

In this episode of DevelopmentAid Dialogues, Ibrahim Elhadhad, a UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) official, offers alongside Hisham Allam a firsthand look at the complexities of navigating aid delivery in Yemen and the unwavering commitment to helping those most in need.

OCHA plays a central role in coordinating the response. Elhadhad explains a standardized framework used to identify the most vulnerable populations – a crucial step when resources are limited. Tough decisions are inevitable, but Elhadhad emphasizes that even those who don't receive direct aid benefit from a more streamlined response.

The volatile security situation creates significant dangers for aid workers. Elhadhad acknowledges the ever-present threat of assassinations, detentions, and kidnappings. OCHA implements safety measures, analyzing the presence of armed actors, securing facilities, and obtaining movement permits. Elhadhad uses the example of curfews to illustrate the constant need to navigate the complexities on the ground.

Reaching the most vulnerable people - women, children, and the displaced - is a continuous priority. Elhadhad describes how OCHA achieves this by gathering data broken down by gender, age, and susceptibility. This data, along with a comprehensive monitoring system, enables transparent reporting and verification of aid delivery. Despite these efforts, the magnitude of the situation is enormous. Millions of people are denied access to crucial help due to funding shortfalls. Elhadhad underlines the urgent need for more donor support.

The podcast is sponsored by Developmentaid.org
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Luvut

1. Voices from Yemen: Delivering AID in a Conflict Zone | Dialogue with Ibrahim El Haddad from OCHA (00:00:00)

2. War in Yemen and its effect on aid delivery (00:01:01)

3. OCHA and displacement issue (00:02:24)

4. OCHA strategies ensuring effective distribution of aid (00:05:14)

5. JIAF and investments in 2024 (00:06:26)

6. OCHA staff security (00:09:44)

7. How to make other organizations to support OCHA (00:13:52)

8. How to coordinate with two authorities in conflict? (00:15:15)

9. How to ensure AID is reaching the right target (00:18:05)

10. Examples of progress (00:21:54)

11. What are the key priorities for humanitarian assistance in Yemen in the coming year? (00:24:31)

12. How to build trust with the authorities? (00:26:50)

13. the role of data and technology and improving the delivery of aid in Yemen (00:28:14)