Media Releases

Oxfam applauds president Biden’s day one executive actions.

January 21, 2021

Oxfam applauded President Biden’s expected efforts on his first day in office to roll back some of the Trump administration’s most unjust policies, including ending the discriminatory Muslim Ban, rejoining the Paris Climate Agreement, joining global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, and proposing sweeping immigration legislation that better reflects the values of our country.

“On the campaign trail, presidential candidate Biden promised to take urgent action to put an end to some of the most damaging policies enacted by President Trump. On his first day in office, President Biden did just that, pointing our country on a new, more just course,” said Abby Maxman, Oxfam America’s President and CEO.

Oxfam praised President Biden’s move to officially rejoin the Paris Agreement on climate change, as it is the best way to work with other countries to address the climate crisis.

“The US’s exit from the Paris agreement was indefensible, pointless, and self-defeating. The US is back at the table now, with a renewed mandate for ambitious global climate action and urgency to make up for lost time,” said Kristen Hite, Oxfam America’s Associate Director for Climate Change. “It’s got to be an all-out sprint for bold and inclusive action that protects people and planet.”

While rejoining the Paris agreement is crucial move, Oxfam warned that it is really just the first step. The climate crisis is affecting every country and every continent, but it is the poorest people who are least responsible for the problem who suffer the most. That’s why reducing emissions must be coupled with efforts to help frontline communities cope with mounting climate impacts.

“Addressing the needs of the vulnerable must be at the heart of the Biden administration’s climate agenda, continued Hite. “The Biden administration must step up to do its fair share to address climate change here at home and enable the poorest and most vulnerable around the world to do the same for themselves. We must bridge borders and stand up for the right to a livable planet for all.”

Oxfam also praised President Biden’s executive order repealing the discriminatory Muslim ban that was rooted in divisiveness, fearmongering, and hate.

“By repealing the Muslim Ban on day one, President Biden has made it clear to the world that banning people based on their identity does not reflect American values, said Isra Chaker, Oxfam America’s Migration and Protection Campaign lead. “No community should be discriminated against because of their religion or where they come from.”

President Trump’s administration waged an all-out assault on the principles of tolerance and inclusion that are the bedrock of this country founded by refugees and immigrants. Oxfam called on Congress to ensure that no future president can impose similar discriminatory bans by passing the landmark NO BAN Act.

Oxfam also applauded the comprehensive, progressive new immigration measures President Biden is spearheading, which include rebuilding the US refugee program, creating a pathway to citizenship for undocumented people, and increased efforts to address the root causes of forced migration in Central America.

“We hope this is the beginning of a wholesale repudiation of the anti-immigrant, anti-refugee, anti-Muslim mentality of the Trump administration,” said Chaker. “President Biden can save lives, restore America’s proud legacy as a refuge for people fleeing persecution, and unleash the contributions of immigrants by undertaking a number of reforms that don’t just go back to the pre-Trump era but move forward to build a better, more just, and more humane immigration system.”

Oxfam has worked in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras for decades and knows firsthand the importance of addressing the root cause of forced migration, including efforts to strengthen the rule of law, combat corruption, confront violence, strengthen democratic governance and respect for human rights, and address the structural causes of poverty and inequality.

“Every year, thousands of people in Central America are forced to leave their homes to escape violence, criminal gangs, instability, poverty, and economic hardship,” said Chaker. “Until the root causes are addressed and the situation in these countries improves, people will continue to flee in search of safety and a better life.”

Oxfam also praised President Biden’s reversal of the withdrawal process from the World Health Organization. This unprecedented pandemic calls for a response that engages with experts and promotes local leadership throughout communities, carried out with a sense of shared humanity. By recommitting to the World Health Organization today, President Biden is recommitting the United States to the global fight against the threat of global pandemics like COVID-19.

“A global pandemic requires global solutions. As this global pandemic has only reinforced, America can only be great – and safe – when we work with others to solve the problems facing humanity,” said Noah Gottschalk, Oxfam America’s Global Policy Lead. “No one individual, community, or country can deal with this crisis alone. Only international cooperation and solidarity can save lives and restore the global economy. We must work together, in our communities and across borders, with dignity and compassion. No one is safe until everyone is safe.”

Oxfam called on the new Biden administration to build on these critical first day actions with wind in their sails. This includes taking action to enact rules to protect the health of workers at risk because of COVID-19, ending US support for the war in Yemen, and doing everything possible to make a People’s Vaccine free, fair and available as soon as possible to everyone in the US and around the world. Importantly, President-elect Biden must quickly work with Congress to enact a transformational COVID-19 recovery plan that helps families cope with the economic impacts of the pandemic; get people back to work; rein in corporate power; help rebuild our economy from the bottom up; and begin to tackle the economic; gender, and racial inequalities that have been exacerbated by this crisis, here and around the world.

“In the midst of a global pandemic and facing a climate crisis, we have an enormous task ahead of us, to rebuild while imagining something new,” said Maxman. “Now is not the time for half-measures or tinkering around the edges. Now is the time for bigger, bolder action that will deliver a more resilient and dignified future where everyone can thrive, not just survive.”

13.5 million people face starvation if US designation of Houthis blocks aid and food delivery

January 20, 2021

13.5 million people in Yemen will be pushed towards starvation by the US designation of Ansar Allah, commonly known as the Houthis, as a terrorist organization. The designation comes into effect today and will seriously affect vital food imports to the country and humanitarian assistance, Oxfam warned.

Muhsin Siddiquey, Oxfam’s Country Director in Yemen, said: “Around 50,000 Yemenis are already facing starvation. This designation is devastating for them and for the millions more who rely on food aid. The tragic fact is that people will die if food imports are disrupted.

“We desperately need the US to immediately reverse this decision in order to avert catastrophe. Yemen imports 88% of its food supply but food importers have told us that the designation means they can no longer operate. I’ve also been told by a major grain importer that there is less than one month’s supply in their warehouse. People need food – if it can’t be brought into the country how can they eat?”

The United States government’s designation of Ansar Allah means that Oxfam has been forced to immediately pause its support to up to 245,000 people due to restrictions on contributions from private donors in the United States. The flow of remittances – a vital source of income for food insecure people across the country – will also be severely impacted.

Oxfam warned that the effects of this decision will not be confined to the areas controlled by Ansar Allah only and will affect the country as a whole. Oxfam is calling on the US government to reverse both group designations of Ansar Allah, the Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT) designation and the Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) designation. While all sides of the conflict have committed violations of international law and unacceptable violent attacks against civilians, the designation will not provide justice or accountability to any of their victims. It will only compound the suffering of Yemen’s most vulnerable people.

Siddiquey explained: “Importers have told us they are worried that banks will no longer be able to do business with them. In any case, over 58% of Yemen’s grain is imported through two ports in Houthi controlled territory, Hodeida and Saleef. Even if ships could divert to government-controlled Aden, the port simply could not cope with the extra cargoes. Food supplies would be drastically reduced and, most importantly, prices would skyrocket.

“It is an ongoing, unforgivable tragedy that people in Yemen are suffering from malnutrition and lack of water in plain sight of the whole world. Yemenis deserve to live in a country without conflict where their children have a future.”

The US government designation is coming at the worst possible time for Yemeni people. After six years of deadly conflict, aid to Yemen has already been cut by half with only 50 per cent of the US$3.38 billion needed received by the end of December 2020.

Notes to Editors:

Spokespeople available in Yemen.

For more information contact Tania Corbett tcorbett1@oxfam.org.uk / +44 7824 824 359

Figures for food imports to Yemen are here: https://www.acaps.org/sites/acaps/files/products/files/20201216_acaps_yemen_analysis_hub_food_supply_chain.pdf

Aid relief information and update – https://reliefweb.int/report/yemen/yemen-humanitarian-update-issue-12-december-2020

Figures for numbers facing starvation and reliant on food aid taken from here – https://reliefweb.int/report/yemen/under-secretary-general-humanitarian-affairs-and-emergency-relief-coordinator-mark-35

Oxfam warns of COVID-19 risks in camps following Indonesian earthquake

January 18, 2021

Oxfam warned today of the risk of an outbreak of coronavirus in the over-crowded camps where people are sheltering following Friday’s earthquake in Sulawesi, Indonesia.

At least 56 people are reported dead, more than 826 injured and more than 15,000 fled from their homes following 6.2 magnitude earthquake which damaged and destroyed hundreds of homes around the cities of Majene and Mamuju in the west of the island. Many of those who fled the quake are now sheltering in 15 camps.

Oxfam is working through its local partners Jejaring Mitra Kemanusiaan (JMK-Humanitarian Knowledge Hub) to help those affected by the earthquake.

Oxfam in Indonesia’s Humanitarian Operation Lead Dino Argianto said:

“Initially, access to some of the affected areas was blocked due to damage to the road between the two cities. Now it has been cleared, we have been able to travel to the camps and have seen the conditions people are living in.

“The camps are over-crowded, with no precautionary measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and there is limited PPE available – yet this is a part of Indonesia that is currently classified as a high transmission risk zone.

“There are many displaced people on the road, and no segregation in the camps, leading to safety concerns particularly for women and children.

“We were able to do an initial assessment and distribute some tarpaulin for shelter, hygiene kits and dignity kits for women, but much more is needed.”

Oxfam in Indonesia will continue to work through its local partner, JMK, in close coordination with government bodies and departments, such as the National Disaster Management Office, Ministry of Social Affairs and other humanitarian agencies.

NGO heavyweights team up for South Island adventure challenge

January 14, 2021

Two of New Zealand’s most respected organisations have teamed up in 2021 to offer Kiwis the chance to take on the famous Alps2Ocean cycling adventure, all for a good cause.

Oxfam New Zealand and Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand are inviting Kiwis to experience a stunning cycle ride through spectacular scenery across the South Island.

Participants in the challenge will start their 300km journey at the Southern Alps, making their way through glacier-carved valleys, rural plains, and vineyards to the historical coastal town of Oamaru, all the while fundraising to support Oxfam and Amnesty’s vital work challenging injustice around the world.

Oxfam New Zealand’s Executive Director Rachael Le Mesurier said the epic adventure was sure to attract everyone from cycling buffs to mere enthusiasts.

“Having just cycled this very trail over the holidays I could not be more excited to launch this event to our supporters and all who want to get out and experience the South Island.

“It’s simply some of the most beautiful scenery you might have the chance to see in Aotearoa. The landscapes are both wondrous and humbling, and we know the camaraderie will be excellent! This is a unique opportunity to enjoy our breath-taking whenua while knowing you’re helping to make a difference for people who need it most.

“We’re proud to start this collaboration with our friends at Amnesty, in such an exquisite part of our country and ‘cycling’ together towards our shared goal of challenging injustice around the world.”

Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand’s Executive Director Meg de Ronde is equally excited about the new adventure.

“After such a challenging 2020 this event offers an amazing opportunity for people from all walks of life to come together for an inspiring adventure in 2021.

“I love that the team on the Alps2Ocean ride will be connected on so many levels – not only united by their sense of adventure but also in actively helping create the world they want to see.

“In the spirit of connection, it is great to be working together with Oxfam for this new adventure and we can’t wait to have our supporters join us for what will truly be a ride to remember!”

To find out more or to REGISTER visit Oxfam or Amnesty.

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For images, interviews or more information please contact: 

Kelsey-Rae Taylor on kelsey-rae.taylor@oxfam.org.nz or 021 298 5894

Alicia King on alicia.king@amnesty.org.nz or 02102463250

Homes flattened, thousands in evacuation centres as powerful Tropical Cyclone Yasa strikes Fiji

December 18, 2020

Oxfam is working with local partners and coordinating with the Fijian government to assess the damage and needs of affected communities following Cyclone Yasa’s landfall in Fiji yesterday and early this morning.

Communities are reporting widespread damage to homes, landslides blocking roads, coastal and surface flooding in low-lying areas and damaged vegetation.

Destructive winds of up to 345km/h, heavy rain and storm swells affecting more than 600,000 people in the South Pacific island nation, have disrupted access to essential utilities including water supply and sanitation facilities, as well as shelter and food security.

Oxfam in the Pacific’s Regional Director Raijeli Nicole said preparations were underway with local partners to support people affected by the super-cyclone.

“Though TC Yasa is moving faster than expected, leaving less time to cause as much damage as was feared, it still has the potential to be devastating for the hundreds of thousands of people in its path. Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable with flooding and coastal inundation expected in low-lying areas, along with strong winds and heavy rain,” she said.

“We are extremely concerned about the potential for a second disaster within a disaster. Without assistance, people will be at risk of waterborne infections.

“The cyclone is still moving across Fiji and therefore determining the true impact of the damage will take some time. However, Oxfam has contingency stock already in place including hygiene kits with essential items like soap and water purification tablets ready for our local partners to distribute to communities in need.

“This is the second Category 5 tropical cyclone to hit Fiji’s main population centres in 2020 after Harold in April, and one of a dozen major storms in the last eight years. Through intensifying cyclones like Yasa, our islands are experiencing the harsh consequences of inaction on climate change right now. It’s past time for world leaders to step up their commitments in this climate emergency,” she added.

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For more information, please contact:
Kelsey-Rae Taylor | Kelsey-Rae.Taylor@oxfam.org.nz | 021 298 9854

2.7 billion people have had no ‘social protection’ to cope with Covid-19 economic crisis

December 15, 2020

New Oxfam research shows that over a third of the world’s population has had no public money to cope with the effects of the pandemic.

A new report “Shelter from the Storm”, done in partnership with Development Pathways, reviewed government schemes used to inject additional money to help people, such as disability, unemployment, child, and elderly benefits, for 126 low and middle-income countries. It found none of them were adequate to meet everyone’s needs.

Overall, the world has spent an additional $11.7 trillion this year to cope with the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. Of this, $9.8 trillion (83%) was spent by 36 rich countries against just $42 billion (0.4%) in 59 low-income countries.

On additional cash poured specifically into social protection programs, 28 rich countries have spent at the rate of $695 per person. In contrast, low-income and emerging countries have spent at a per capita rate of between $28 to as low as $4.

To make matters worse, rich countries have only increased their aid to developing countries for social protection by $5.8 billion – the equivalent of less than five cents for every $100 raised to tackle Covid-19.

“The coronavirus united the world in fear but has divided it in response,” said Oxfam Executive Director Gabriela Bucher. “The pandemic sparked a laudable global effort that reached more than a billion more people with social protection support over 2020 but, as of today, more people still have been left behind entirely. That need not be so.”

The need for better social protection programs to help people is huge. Half a billion people are now under-employed or out of work, twice as many women affected as men. Workers in low-income countries have suffered most, losing 23% of their working hours. People are falling into debt, skipping meals, keeping children from school and selling their assets. Remittance flows from migrants to reliant families back home have collapsed. Global poverty and hunger are rocketing.

However, the report finds:

41% of the 126 countries studied had social protection schemes consisting of one-off payments, now long exhausted; only 13% had programs that lasted longer than six months. Eight out of 10 countries have not reached even half their citizens.
Some countries like South Africa, Namibia and Bolivia were better prepared with near-universal social benefits in place prior to the pandemic. Oxfam says that most other countries could achieve this with better policies and more support.
By 2030, Kenya and Indonesia, for example, could cut their poverty rate by 25% and 31% respectively by investing 1.7% of their GDP now into universal social protection schemes.
Many developing countries have been able to mobilize non-financial help, like food aid, but this is often insufficient to make up the overall gap in formal social protection schemes.

Bucher said that social protection is both a lifeline and a human right, and one of the most powerful and affordable investments to reduce inequality, vulnerability, poverty and need. “The case for overseas aid, progressive taxation and international solidarity has never been stronger, precisely because of this desperate time in which we are living through”.

“All this because inequality is a hard-wired design feature rather than design fault of our global economic system. Millions of desperate people see precious little relief ahead without urgent action,” Bucher said.

Years of under-investment and often discredited advice – such as harsh and arbitrary means testing – have left most developing countries with shallow or broken social protection programs and exposed to the pandemic’s worst consequences.

“Oxfam has reached 11.3 million people through our Covid response programming around the world however, as much as civil society is mobilizing together strongly, with local partners and community leadership to the fore, the scale of people’s need is overwhelming and growing”.

The report illustrates stories like Sovann Vary’s, a single mother who borrowed $5,000 to buy a tuk-tuk when her job as a domestic cleaner ended. She is struggling to repay and is ineligible for the social insurance scheme set up by her Cambodian government. And informal garment worker Brenda Carolina whose family now depends upon sporadic food aid after she was rejected for support, despite the Guatemalan government’s efforts to increase its coverage. “We’re hearing hundreds of stories like Vary’s and Brenda’s, every day,” Bucher said.

“There is still time for developing country governments to step up their support for people by increasing taxes on the richest to pay for decent universal social protection programs. They have to show the will. And still time for rich nations to increase their aid and currency reserves, and cancel their debts, to help them afford it.”

Oxfam is calling for a Global Fund for Social Protection to avert a huge increase in global inequality and poverty, as a keystone toward a more equal and resilient post-Covid economy. Governments should commit an additional 2% of their GDP into social protection programs and ensure minimum income security for children, the elderly, mothers, and people living with disability.

“An unprecedented investment is now required,” Bucher said, “one that bravely meets the crisis head on. One that learns from the most successful countries.”

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For more information, please contact:

Kelsey-Rae Taylor on Kelsey-Rae.Taylor@oxfam.org.nz or +6421 298 5894.

Notes to editor:

Prior the coronavirus pandemic, up to 4 billion people lacked of social protection, according to ILO (World Social Protection Report 2017-19). The World Bank estimates that 1.3 billion have been reached since with social assistance cash transfer coverage expansion. Source WB: U. Gentilini et al. (2020). Social Protection and Jobs Responses to COVID-19. About 2.7 billion people have consequently been left behind.

Oxfam partnered in this research with Development Pathways.