Australian humanitarian assistance following conflict in Georgia

The Government of Australia Press-Release

Australia will provide $1 million to deliver emergency humanitarian assistance to people adversely affected following the conflict in Georgia.
The recent conflict has caused the displacement of over 100,000 people according to estimates by both the Government of Georgia and the Russian Federation.

The International Committee of the Red Cross reports 2,000 dead and a further 3,500 injured.

To help address immediate humanitarian needs, Australia has committed $500,000 to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to provide urgently needed relief to the displaced including shelter, blankets and water.

A further $500,000 has been allocated to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for the immediate provision of medical supplies to hospitals and the deployment of field hospitals for critical surgery in Gori and South Ossetia.

ICRC assistance will also include distribution of hygiene kits and access to clean drinking water.

Australia has also agreed to the deployment of two Australian humanitarian technical experts to support the United Nations Childrens’ Fund, UNICEF, in restoring water and sanitation to affected areas.

UNHCR and ICRC are well-established in Georgia including South Ossetia and Abkahzia. Their ongoing support in these areas dates from the 1992 conflict.

Australia is concerned that despite the announcement of a ceasefire agreement which commits both sides to a cessation of all hostilities and the withdrawal of troops to positions held before the conflict broke out, there have been reports of ongoing military action by Russian forces.

Australia calls on Russia to honour the terms of the ceasefire, respect the territorial integrity of Georgia and resolve its differences with Georgia through peaceful means.

The military action taken by Russia has been disproportionate and has resulted in widespread damage and heavy casualties.

Australia looks to both Georgia and Russia to immediately implement the terms of the ceasefire agreement so as to ensure that conditions on the ground are safe for the immediate and effective delivery of aid.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade continues to advise Australians not to travel to Georgia.

Media inquiries: Mr Smith’s office 02 6277 7500 – Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555