The global burden of Improvised Explosive Devices

Iain Overton and Jennifer Dathan

There is no day that goes past without the impact of an improvised explosive device (IED) making headlines around the world. Of all explosive weapons used, the IED is the most widespread, the most harmful and the most pernicious. Based on the belief that to overcome a problem, we must first understand it, this monitor is a small step in seeking to address the terrible realities of today.
It is a monitor that is, also, a response to a call to action.

In July 2016, the United Nations Secretary-General released a report called “Countering the threat posed by improvised explosive devices”. Within its pages lay a recommendation: ‘Further research on various dimensions of IED issues, including prevention, preparedness, response and recovery’ was called for, so as to ‘help inform a better understanding of the multifaceted approach required to address the issue of IEDs’ (Recommendation 22). In addition, in late 2016, the Afghanistan government proposed, for the second year, a resolution: “Countering the Threat Posed by Improvised Explosive Devices.” It was adopted by the General Assembly on December 5th 2016. Its text encouraged greater research and awareness-raising on improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Accordingly, based on data from AOAV’s own Explosive Violence Monitor, and further in-depth research by experts in this field, AOAV presents this monitor on IED harm, developments, tactics, and users.
For more information, please go to AOAV’s website: www.aoav.org.uk or contact its Executive Director,
Iain Overton, at ioverton@aoav.org.uk.

This monthly digest comprises threats and incidents of violence affecting the delivery of humanitarian assistance. It is prepared by Insecurity Insight from information available in open sources.

Global

13 November 2017: Save the Children announced that it had fired 16 staff over reports of sexual violence in the past year. Source:Thomson Reuters Foundation

13 November: Oxfam announced that it had dismissed 22 staff over reports of sexual violence in the year ending April 2017. Source:Thomson Reuters Foundation

12,736 TOTAL ARRIVALS TO EUROPE IN 201810,566 ARRIVALS BY SEA IN 20182,170 ARRIVALS BY LAND IN 201720,200 ARRIVALS TO EUROPE BY THE END OF FEBRUARY 2017

Highlights

According to data collacted from national authorities and IOM offices there were 12,736 new arrivals to Europe in January and February 2018. Looking into the data for the past four years, with the exception of 2015 when 11,950 arrivals have been registered, this is the lowest number of registered irregular migrants arriving to Europe. It represents a 37% decrease compared to 20,200 reported in the same period last year, and more than ten times decrease in comparison to 137,116 registered in January and February 2016.

The decrease this year is mainly related to the lower number of migrants crossing the Central Mediterranean route. Arrivals to Italy halved from 13,436 in 2017 to 5,247. In addition to that, Bulgarian, Spanish and Cyprian authorities also registered less migrants and asylum seekers this year compared to year before. In Bulgaria there were a total of 154 apprehensions in 2018 compared to 451 in 2017, while in Cyprus, there were 47 new arrivals this year compared to 96 in the same period 2017. Spain has seen a slight (4%) decrease, from 3,862 in 2017 to 3,700 registered in January and February 2018.

In contrast to that, authorities in Greece reported a 33% increase, from 2,705 in January and February 2017, to 3,588 in the same period 2018.

Syrian and Iraqi nationals are still the first two registered nationality groups for migrants and asylum seekers who arrived to Europe through the Eastern Mediterranean route. On the Central route, an increase is observed in arrivals from Eritrea (one quarter of all registered migrants in Italy this year) which is a first nationality group registered, followed by migrants originating in Tunisia,
Nigeria and Pakistan.

Although to a lesser extent, the flows through the Western Balkans are still registered. In that regards, a significant increase has been observed in the number of registered irregular migrants on exit and entry to Bosnia and Herzegovina - from 146 reported for the first two months of 2017, to 458 intercepted at the end of this reporting period (increase for more than 200%), It seems that this is a continuation of the rise in apprehensions noted at the end of 2017 when in the last three months authorities intercepted 529 irregular migrants, almost the same as the sum of the apprehensions reported for the remaining nine months of the year.

Global Overview MARCH 2018

March saw Israeli forces respond with deadly force to the largest Palestinian marches in years at the Gaza-Israel border fence, killing fifteen protesters in one day. Violent confrontations risk increasing in the coming weeks, as protests continue in the lead-up to Palestinians’ commemoration of their expulsion from Israel. Sri Lanka faced its worst outbreak of anti-Muslim violence since 2014, while tensions flared between Kosovo and Serbia, and Turkmenistan saw protests over food shortages. In West Africa, jihadists launched their best organised and most sustained attacks yet on Burkina Faso’s capital, and central Mali, on top of ongoing jihadist violence, witnessed a rise in attacks between Fulani and Dogon communities. In Nigeria, the Boko Haram insurgency, herder-farmer killings and rural banditry together pushed the monthly death toll to at least 300. On a positive note, surprise talks between Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga created an opening for dialogue and political reform. In North East Asia, tensions increased between Taiwan and China, while on the Korean peninsula an inter-Korean summit in late April and planned talks between U.S. President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in May offer an opportunity to make progress on security issues.

Global Overview APRIL 2018

April saw the conflict in Yemen intensify, with both the Saudi-led coalition and Huthi forces increasing attacks – fuelling risks of further escalation in May. At the Gaza-Israel border, Israeli forces continued to push back Palestinian protesters with deadly force; with larger protests expected in May, casualties could rise. Eastern Libya's strongman fell ill, prompting fears of further political and military splits. In Afghanistan, the Taliban stepped up attacks, while Kashmir saw deadly clashes and protests. Dozens were killed amid anti-government protests in Nicaragua. In Nigeria, rising violence – especially between herders and farmers – left nearly 500 dead. Burundi could see more political violence around its 17 May constitutional referendum, and a flare-up in attacks by armed groups in the Central African Republic could provoke worse bloodshed in coming weeks. The United Arab Emirates’ withdrawal from Somalia led to clashes between army factions there. On a positive note, Ethiopia’s new prime minister took steps to mitigate ethnic tensions. In North East Asia, tensions escalated across the Taiwan Strait, while China-Japan relations continued to improve, and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and South Korean President Moon pledged to seek “complete denuclearisation” of the peninsula.

HIGHLIGHTS

DTM flow monitoring data compiled from national authorities and IOM offices show that the number of arrivals through Mediterranean routes between January and March 2018 is half the number of arrivals in the same period in 2017. In the first quarter of 2018 a total of 1,956 migrants and asylum seekers arrived in Europe using different land and sea routes, in comparison to 34,531 registered in the first quarter of 2017. As previously reported, the decrease is mainly due to the drop in arrivals in Italy.

This year, authorities in Italy registered 6,29 6 new arrivals, almost four times less than the 24,292 registered in the same period in 2017. Similarly, the decrease is also noted in registered arrivals in Bulgaria (714 in 2017 and 286 in 2018), Spain (5,204 versus 4,984) and Cyprus (250 versus 47). In contrast to that, there was an increase of 67 per cent in registered sea and land arrivals to Greece from 4,407 in the first quarter of 2017 to 7,343 registered in the first quarter of 2018. The increase in the number of land arrivals is especially significant as it reached a total of 2,145 at the end of March 2018, which is the highest figure reported in the past four years. The majority (62%) of migrants who were registered crossing to Greece by land from Turkey were registered during this reporting period - a total of 1,327, which is three times greater than the 425 land arrivals reported in February and the 393 registered in January 2018.

Available data on the nationalities of the migrants and refugees who arrived in Italy and Greece, two main entry points in the Mediterranean, indicate a change in the nationality structure of the registered population between the first quarters of 2017 and 2018. Looking at the top five registered nationality groups in Greece reveals that an estimated third of the migrants and refugees were Syrian nationals in both 2017 (36%) and 2018 (37%).

Global Overview MAY 2018

May saw Cameroon’s Anglophone conflict escalate and new clashes between Somaliland and Somalia’s Puntland over disputed territory – in both cases, fighting could increase in June. Intercommunal violence rose in the Central African Republic and on both sides of the Mali-Niger border. In Burundi, President Nkurunziza pushed through changes to the constitution, entrenching his increasingly authoritarian rule. In Yemen, both sides intensified their campaigns and the Saudi-led coalition’s offensive on Hodeida could mean more bloodshed in coming weeks. Israel killed over 60 Palestinian protesters in one day, and Israel-Iran tensions climbed in Syria. President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal could ramp up confrontation between the U.S. and Iran or their respective allies. Fighting intensified in Afghanistan, while Indonesia faced ISIS-linked terror attacks. In North East Asia, China and Japan established a crisis management hotline, tensions flared over the Taiwan Strait, and a planned summit between Trump and Kim Jong-un in June could advance denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula.

Threats and violence affecting emergency care

Africa

South Africa 09 June 2018: In Du Noon township, Cape Town city, Western Cape province, unspecified assailants wielding a gun and a knife attacked a group of volunteer paramedics, stealing personal valuables and some of their equipment. Source: News 24

Middle-East and North Africa

Occupied Palestinian Territories 01 June 2018: In the Khan Yunis area, Gaza Strip, a female medical volunteer medic from the Palestinian Medical Relief Society NGO was shot and killed by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) during a protest. According to witness reports and mobile phone footage, she was moving with her hands up and identification card displayed towards a protestor who had been severely affected by tear gas and was close to the border fence. A preliminary IDF investigation claimed that she was not specifically targeted in the attack.
Sources: New York Times, Sky News (a), Sky News (b), and ACLED

Threats and violence affecting general healthcare

Africa

Democratic Republic of the Congo
08 June 2018: In Rutshuru town and territory, North Kivu province, unidentified gunmen entered the home of the nurse who oversaw the local Tamugenga Health Centre, took him out to the street and killed him. Source: Actualite

Mali
16 June 2018: In Tin Techori area, Gao region, militiamen from the Movement for the Salvation of Azawad (MSA) assassinated a health worker and stole his vehicle. The killing was believed to be motivated by his criticism of prior abuses carried out by the group.
Source: ACLED 24 June 2018: In Bourra commune, Ansongo cercle, Gao region, three armed bandits on motorbikes assaulted a pharmacist, tied him up, stole his mobile phone, and a sum of 42 thousand CFA francs (approximately 65 euro). Source: aBamako

Global Overview JULY 2018

In July, fighting rose between Israel and Hamas and could quickly escalate into a new Gaza war, while in Yemen, as violence intensified on several fronts, a UN plan offered hope that a battle for Hodeida city could still be averted. Al-Shabaab stepped up attacks in Somalia, Cameroon’s Anglophone conflict spread to new areas, and tensions rose within Côte d’Ivoire’s ruling coalition. Violence marred elections in Pakistan and disrupted voting in Mali. Zimbabwe’s first general election since former President Mugabe’s ouster went largely peacefully; wide endorsement of the results could pave the way for the country’s recovery, but their rejection could spark turmoil. Violent protests erupted in southern Iraq over poor services and unemployment, and in Haiti over a proposed hike in fuel prices. Deadly clashes between protesters and pro-government forces in Nicaragua continued with hundreds now reported killed. On a brighter note, Ethiopia and Eritrea took further steps to cement peace, South Sudan’s warring leaders agreed to share power, and in the Philippines, the Bangsamoro Organic Law, a long-awaited step to implement peace in Mindanao, was finally signed into law.

Threats and violence affecting emergency care

Middle-East and North Africa

Syrian Arab Republic

19 July 2018: In Manjib city and district, Aleppo governorate, a mine exploded near an ambulance carrying patients, slightly injuring the driver and damaging the vehicle. Another mine was later found 25 metres away from the spot. Source: Manbijmc

The Americas

Mexico

06 July 2018: In Zacatecas city and state, armed individuals hijacked an ambulance, whilst it was en route from Nochistlán de Mejía town to the General Hospital of Zacatecas, including its occupants, two of whom were paramedics. Source: NTR

20 July 2018: In Palenque city and municipality, Chiapas state, unknown assailants intercepted an ambulance carrying Red Cross paramedics whilst it was travelling along Palenque-Benemérito de las Américas roads and beat its occupants, before fleeing with the vehicle. Source: Tabasco Hoy

Global Overview

In August, the Syrian regime and its allies upped attacks in the north west, pointing to an imminent offensive on rebel-held Idlib province, home to nearly three million people. Fierce militia fighting erupted in Libya’s capital and could escalate in the coming weeks. The UN’s consultations with Yemen’s belligerents in September could re-energise peace talks; but failure could trigger more violence. In DR Congo, the government’s determination to bar the main opposition contenders from December’s presidential poll could provoke more protests, while Zimbabwe’s elections left the country even more divided. Uganda’s detention of a popular challenger sparked protests, which the authorities put down with force. Mob violence rose in eastern Ethiopia, and Chad responded with force to a rebel attack. In Chechnya, boys reportedly carried out attacks on police after pledging allegiance to Islamic State. The exodus of Venezuelans to neighbouring countries presented a growing regional threat, with the government’s new economic reform package making things worse. A forthcoming referendum in Macedonia could bring the country another step closer to resolution of its longstanding name dispute with Greece.

Global Overview

In September, Cameroon’s Anglophone separatists and security forces stepped up attacks and violence could rise around the 7 October presidential vote, while Afghanistan’s parliamentary polls are likely to be marred by violence and their results contested. Yemen missed an opportunity as Huthi rebels refused to take part in UN-led consultations and fighting resumed outside Hodeida, boding ill for October. Militia fighting worsened in Libya’s capital, militant attacks rose in eastern Burkina Faso, and Ethiopia’s capital saw a spate of ethnic violence. Al-Shabaab carried out ambitious attacks in Somalia’s capital and regional states cut ties with the federal government, risking worse political divisions and violence in coming weeks. In Syria, a Turkey-Russia deal seems to have averted a major offensive on rebel-held Idlib, but it needs to take root in October. Djibouti and Eritrea agreed to work toward normalising relations, and a surprise electoral result in the Maldives gave hope for a peaceful political transition. In Guatemala, the president’s attempt to dismantle a UN-backed anti-corruption body prompted a political crisis, while a significant confidence-building measure in Georgia’s conflicts with its breakaway republics broke down. In East Asia, a summit between the leaders of North and South Korea opened up prospects for denuclearisation.

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1257/96 of 20 June 1996 concerning humanitarian aid1 , and in particular Article 2, Article 4 and Article 15(2) and (3) thereof,

Having regard to Council Decision 2013/755/EU of 25 November 2013 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the European Union ('Overseas Association Decision')2 , and in particular Article 79 thereof,

Having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 July 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union, amending Regulations (EU) No 1296/2013, (EU) No 1301/2013, (EU) No 1303/2013, (EU)
No 1304/2013, (EU) No 1309/2013, (EU) No 1316/2013, (EU) No 223/2014, (EU) No 283/2014, and Decision No 541/2014/EU and repealing Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/20123 , and in particular Article 110 thereof,

Whereas:

(1) Commission Decision C(2017) 88634 provides for the financing of humanitarian aid operational priorities from the 2018 general budget of the European Union for a total amount of EUR 842 200 000 from budget articles 23 02 01 and 23 02 02. In light of the evolution of the humanitarian needs during the year, this amount was raised to EUR 1 037 600 000 by Decision C(2018) 35745 of 07 June 2018 and subsequently to EUR 1 212 600 000 by Decision C(2018) 65326 of 9 October 2018 amending decision C(2017) 8863.

(2) The Commission is committed to providing a humanitarian response in those areas where humanitarian needs are greatest. Accordingly, when required by changing circumstances in the field which might affect existing humanitarian needs or generate new needs, the humanitarian response may be subject to reorientation or scaling-up in the course of implementation of actions. Union financial assistance may also have to be awarded to new actions to satisfy exacerbated or increased humanitarian needs.

(3) The global humanitarian context has been characterised by an increase in humanitarian needs in locations such as Central African Republic facing an internal conflict, Chad where the food security situation has drastically deteriorated, Cameroon facing an increasing influx of refugees, Niger facing a cholera outbreak, the Sahel (Burkina Faso, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Nigeria) with increased needs of vulnerable populations affected by accute food or nutrition insecurity or conflict, Burundi with a regional refugee crisis, Madagascar and Haiti with a deteriorating food and nutrition security situation, Columbia facing a resurgence of violence, Palestine where the deterioration of the humanitarian situation has a high impact on the health and food security sectors, Yemen where the crisis is deteriorating, in Ukraine where the situation remains critical. In Myanmar where the Rohingya are in very serious food insecuriy situation and the humanitarian needs in most of the sectors remain uncovered. In addition the country is facing a conflict-related internal displacement crisis because of the escalation of the confilct in Kachin and Chan. In the Philippines where the humanitarian needs are mainly caused by displacement and lack of services, and destroyed or looted assets in areas of return.

(4) Non-substantial changes under this Decision are to be calculated by reference to the maximum contribution, excluding the contributions received from other donors pursuant to Article 21(2)(a)(ii) and Article 21(2)(e) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046.

(5) It is therefore appropriate to amend Decision C(2017) 8863, as amended, to reflect the increase by EUR 176 174 635.17 already made on the basis of the fexibility clause in order to adapt the humanitarian response to the evolving humanitarian aid operational priorities and to distribute this additional funding to the specific objectives fixed in this Decision.

(6) This Decision complies with the conditions laid down in Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2018/1046.

(7) The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Humanitarian Aid Committee established by Article 17(1) of Council Regulation (EC)
No 1257/96,

HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Sole Article

Decision C(2017) 8863 is amended as follows:

(1) Article 1 is amended as follows:

(a) Paragraphs (1) and (2) are replaced by the following: '1. A maximum contribution from the Union budget to the financing of humanitarian aid operational priorities is set at EUR 1 388 774 635.17, of which EUR 1 338 774 635.17 shall be financed from budget article 23 02 01 and EUR 50 000 000 shall be financed from budget article 23 02 02, of the 2018 general budget of the European Union, is approved.

The amount from budget article 23 02 01 referred to above includes a contribution amounting to EUR 36 174 635.17, received by the Union from the Department for International Development (DFID) of the United Kingdom Government, to be used in support humanitarian aid operations in the Sahel.

1. The humanitarian actions shall be implemented in order to:

(a) Provide humanitarian and food assistance, relief and protection to vulnerable people affected by man-made crises, possibly aggravated by natural disasters, including new crises and existing crises where the scale and complexity of the humanitarian crisis is such that it seems likely to continue.
A total of EUR 1 185 300 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this specific objective.

(b) Provide humanitarian and food assistance, relief and protection to vulnerable people affected by natural disasters that have entailed major loss of life, physical and psychological or social suffering or material damage.
A total of EUR 111 474 635.17 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this specific objective.

(c) Provide humanitarian assistance for response and disaster preparedness to populations affected by disasters where a small scale response is adequate and to populations affected by epidemic outbreaks.
A total of EUR 21 000 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this specific objective.

(d) Support strategies and complement existing strategies that enable local communities and institutions to better prepare for, mitigate and respond adequately to natural disasters by enhancing their capacities to cope and respond, thereby increasing resilience and reducing vulnerability.
A total of EUR 50 000 000 from budget article 23 02 02 is allocated to this specific objective.

(e) Improve the delivery of aid through complementary and thematic activities aiming at increasing the effectiveness, efficiency, quality, timeliness and visibility of humanitarian actions and transport.
A total of EUR 21 000 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this specific objective.
This specific objective shall be met through achieving the following subspecific objectives:

(i) Strengthen the global humanitarian preparedness and response capacity of humanitarian partners by increasing the effectiveness and reinforcing the capacity of international humanitarian organisations and non-governmental organisations to assess, analyse, prepare and respond to humanitarian crises.
A total of EUR 3 500 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this subspecific objective.

(ii) Improve the conditions for delivering humanitarian aid by supporting transport services to ensure that aid is accessible to beneficiaries, including by means of medical evacuation of humanitarian staff where the unavailability of such transport services could adversely affect the timely and effective provision of assistance to beneficiaries. A total of EUR 14 800 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this sub-specific objective.

(iii) Increase awareness, understanding of and support for humanitarian issues, especially in the Union and in third countries where the Union is funding major humanitarian operations through public awareness and information campaigns. Communication actions in 2018 will also contribute, where appropriate, to the corporate communication of the Commission, in particular regarding the EU's role in the world (A stronger global actor) as well as to the corporate communication cluster "An EU that protects".

A total of EUR 2 000 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this subspecific objective.

(iv) Provide high quality European education and professional qualifications on humanitarian action that impact on humanitarian aid policy and practice.

A total of EUR 700 000 from budget article 23 02 01 is allocated to this subspecific objective.
Annex 1 to this Decision reflects the above-mentioned allocations by specific objectives.
Annex 2 to this Decision gives an indication of the contemplated allocation by countries/regions.'

(2) Annex 1 is replaced by Annex 1 to this Decision.

(3) Annex 2 is replaced by Annex 2 to this Decision.

Done at Brussels, 13.12.2018

THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,

Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,

Having regard to Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 July 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union, amending Regulations (EU) No 1296/2013, (EU) No 1301/2013, (EU) No 1303/2013, (EU)
No 1304/2013, (EU) No 1309/2013, (EU) No 1316/2013, (EU) No 223/2014, (EU) No 283/2014, and Decision No 541/2014/EU and repealing Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/20121 , and in particular Article 110 thereof,

Having regard to Council Regulation (EC) No 1257/96 of 20 June 1996 concerning humanitarian aid2 ('the Humanitarian Aid Regulation' or 'HAR'), and in particular Article 1,

Article 2, Article 4 and Article 15(2) and (3) thereof,

Having regard to Council Decision 2013/755/EU of 25 November 2013 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the European Union ('the Overseas Association Decision')3 , and in particular Article 79 thereof,

Whereas:

(1) In order to ensure the implementation of the humanitarian aid actions of the Union for 2019, it is necessary to adopt an annual financing decision for 2019. Article 110 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 (‘the Financial Regulation’) establishes detailed rules on financing decisions.

(2) The human and economic losses caused by natural disasters are devastating. These natural disasters, be they sudden or slow onset, that entail major loss of life, physical and psychological or social suffering or material damage, are constantly increasing, and with them so is the number of victims. Man-made humanitarian crises, resulting from wars or outbreaks of fighting (also called complex or protracted crises) account for a large proportion of, and are, the main source of humanitarian needs in the world.
There is also a need for international support for preparedness activities. Disaster preparedness aims at reducing the impact of disasters and crises on populations, allowing early warning and early action to better assist those affected.

(3) The humanitarian aid funded under this Decision should also cover essential activities and support services to humanitarian organisations as referred to in Articles 2(c) and 4 HAR, including notably the protection of humanitarian goods and personnel.

(4) The Union became party to the Food Assistance Convention on 28 November 2012; the Convention entered into force on 1 January 2013. In accordance with Article 5 of the Convention, an amount of EUR 350 000 000, to be spent as food and nutrition assistance funded under this Decision, is to be counted towards the minimum annual commitment for the year 2019 of the Union under the Food Assistance Convention.

(5) Although as a general rule grants funded by this Decision should be co-financed, by way of derogation, the Authorising Officer in accordance with Article 190(3) of the Financial Regulation, may agree to their full financing.

(6) The envisaged assistance is to comply with the conditions and procedures set out by the restrictive measures adopted pursuant to Article 215 TFEU. The needs-based and impartial nature of humanitarian aid implies that the Union may be called to finance humanitarian assistance in crises and countries covered by Union restrictive measures.
In such situations, and in keeping with the relevant principles of international law and with the principles of impartiality, neutrality and non-discrimination referred to in Article 214(2) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the Union should allow and facilitate rapid and unimpeded access to humanitarian relief by civilians in need. The relevant Union restrictive measures should therefore be interpreted and implemented in such a manner as not to preclude the delivery of humanitarian assistance to the intended beneficiaries.

(7) The Commission may acknowledge and accept contributions from other donors in accordance with Article 21(2)(b) of the Financial Regulation, subject to the signing of the relevant agreement. Where such contributions are not denominated in euro, a reasonable estimate of conversion should be made.

(8) It is advisable to maintain a part of the Union budget for humanitarian aid unallocated in order to cover unforeseen operations, as part of an operational reserve.

(9) In cases where Union funding is granted to non-governmental organisations in accordance with Article 7 HAR, in order to guarantee that the beneficiaries of that funding are able to meet their commitments in the long term, the Authorising Officer responsible should verify if the non-governmental organisations concerned satisfy the requisite eligibility and selection criteria, notably as regards their legal, operational and financial capacity. The verification to be made should also seek to confirm whether the non-governmental organisations concerned are able to provide humanitarian aid in accordance with the humanitarian principles set out in the European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid4 .

(10) In cases where the Union finances humanitarian aid operations of Member States' specialised agencies in accordance with Article 9 HAR, in order to guarantee that the beneficiaries of Union grants are capable of fulfilling their commitments in the long run, the Authorising Officer responsible should verify the legal, operational and, where the entities or bodies concerned are governed by private law, financial capacity of any Member States' specialised agencies desiring to receive financial support under this Decision. The verification to be made should notably seek to confirm whether the Member States' specialised agencies concerned are able to provide humanitarian assistance or equivalent international relief outside the Union in accordance with the humanitarian principles set out in the European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid.

(11) Pursuant to Article 195(a) Financial Regulation, it is appropriate to authorise the award of grants without a call for proposals to the non-governmental organisations satisfying the eligibility and suitability criteria referred to in Article 7 HAR for the purpose of humanitarian aid.

(12) In order to ensure an effective delivery in the field of Union-funded humanitarian aid in all relevant crisis contexts while taking into account the specific mandates of international organisations, such as the United Nations and the international component of the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement (International Committee of the Red Cross and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies), it is necessary to use indirect management for the implementation of Union-funded humanitarian aid operations.

(13) The Commission is to ensure a level of protection of the financial interests of the Union with regards to entities and persons entrusted with the implementation of Union funds by indirect management as provided for in Article 154(3) of the Financial Regulation. To this end, such entities and persons are to be subject to an assessment of their systems and procedures in accordance with Article 154(4) of the Financial Regulationand, if necessary, to appropriate supervisory measures in accordance with Article 154(5) of the Financial Regulation before a contribution agreement can be signed.

(14) It is necessary to allow for the payment of interest due for late payment on the basis of Article 116(5) Financial Regulation.

(15) It is appropriate to reserve appropriations for a trust fund in accordance with Article 234 Financial Regulation in order to strengthen the international role of the Union in external actions and development and to increase its visibility and efficiency.

(16) In order to allow for flexibility in the implementation of the financing decision, it is appropriate to define the term 'substantial change' within the meaning of Article 110(5) of the Financial Regulation.

(17) The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Humanitarian Aid Committee established by Article 17(1) HAR.

Global Overview

February saw a dangerous escalation between India and Pakistan. In Yemen, the warring parties took a small step to cement a ceasefire in Hodeida, but a breakdown of talks could trigger new clashes. Fighting in Libya’s south intensified and could worsen, and Chad called in French airstrikes to halt a rebel advance. Al-Shabaab stepped up deadly attacks in Somalia, and in South Sudan a government offensive against rebels in the south is picking up steam. Sudan’s President al-Bashir took a harder line against persistent protests. Suspected jihadists stepped up attacks in Burkina Faso; violence escalated in Cameroon’s Anglophone region; and Angola’s separatists announced a return to arms. In Nigeria, election-related violence rose and could flare again around polls to elect governors in March, while there are growing concerns around Ukraine’s upcoming presidential vote. The confrontation hardened between Venezuelan President Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaidó. In Haiti, anti-government protests turned violent. U.S.-Russia relations deteriorated further in a worrying development for the future of arms control. On a positive note, Taliban and U.S. officials resumed talks on a deal for Afghanistan, negotiations aimed at ending the Western Sahara conflict are planned for March, and Nicaragua’s government resumed dialogue with opposition leaders, raising hopes for an end to the political crisis.

Overview:

In East Africa, production prospects are poor for main season cereals in parts of Somalia and Kenya due to a delayed onset of rains and dry conditions. In West Africa, main season maize planting continues across the south of the region and conditions are favourable with good rains received. In the Middle East and North Africa, winter wheat crops are generally favourable due to good rains throughout the season except in parts of Morocco where poor production has resulted from dry conditions, and in Syria and Iraq due to ongoing conflict. In Southern Africa, winter wheat planted in May is favourable, except in Zambia, where dry conditions have carried over from the previous season. In Central and South Asia, winter cereals for harvest in August are favourable despite some dry conditions in May. In Southeast Asia, harvest of dry-season rice is complete in the north and favourable yields resulted except in parts of Thailand and Philippines. Planting of wet-season rice is underway and conditions are favourable with good rains at the start of the season. In Central America and the Caribbean primera season planting started in May and there is some concern due to irregular rainfall and dry conditions.

Summary of key trends observed

• Data available to UNHCR RR SEE indicated that the overall number of submitted asylum applications in the region (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia) in June 2019 dropped and compared to other months was one of the lowest in 2019. This decrease is particularly evident in Montenegro and Albania, while at the same time the overall numbers of arrivals recorded in these two countries has not decreased. Lower number of applications for asylum in comparison to the same numbers of observed arrivals, could indicate faster onward movements from Albania and Montenegro and also possibly decline in interest to pursue asylum or access to procedure, in those two countries.

• Latest data reveal different and increasing dynamics when it comes to correlation between the numbers of expressions to seek asylum versus actual numbers of lodged applications. But only 8% of the intentions are converted to applications. It is important to analyse the trend with the relevant data on the asylum decisions and their grounds at the end of the year. This comparative insight will offer better understanding of how the concept of intention to seek asylum actually impacts the asylum processing and whether it contributes to its efficacy and or would indicate possible trends in the misuse of Asylum Avenue in the countries introducing it.

• Current asylum processing trend analysis indicate that out of the total of 4601 applications for asylum, only 134 first instance decisions ( only 3% of the overall number of applications) have been reached in 2019. At the same time, it is important to observe that out of this limited number of decisions, only 29% of them correlate to granting the refugee status (only in MNE, Serbia and Kosovo*), while 44% applications have been rejected.

• However, the total number of pending decisions recorded in June stands at above 1000 only. As the majority of applications have been closed, mainly due to the applicant having move onward and hence have absconding . It is important to note that only 2 cases have been granted refugee and subsidiary protection status in the region in June.

• Age, gender and vulnerability indicate that number of applications by female asylum seekers in June represents only 8% of total applications. The June trend analysis indicates some 130 children (only 21 UASC) among applicants. It is estimated that families registered constitute some 30% of the total applicants.

Overview:

In East Africa, harvest of main season cereals is nearing completion across central and southern parts of the subregion and below-average yields are expected due to dry conditions during much of the season. In West Africa, main season maize harvest begins this month across the south of the region and average to above-average yields are expected, except in areas affected by civil unrest in Cameroon, Nigeria and the Central African Republic. In the Middle East and North Africa, harvest is complete for 2019 winter cereals and average to above-average yields are expected throughout most of the subregion due to exceptional seasonal rainfall, except in parts of drought-affected Morocco. In Southern Africa, conditions have worsened for winter wheat as low reservoir levels, caused by carryover dry conditions from the previous season, has impacted irrigation activities. In Central and South Asia, winter cereals for harvest in August are favourable despite below-average rainfall in May and June. In Southeast Asia, planting of wet-season rice is underway. There is concern for crops in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam due to belowaverage rainfall, and in Bangladesh and Nepal due to monsoon rains. In Central America and the Caribbean, harvest of the main “Primera” season maize will begin in August. There is concern due to irregular and below-average rainfall across Central America’s Dry Corridor and Haiti.

The total estimated number of irregular mixed migratory arrivals in the country up to the end of August 2019 is 25,794 arrivals or approximately 107 arrivals/day.
Source: UNHCR and partners

The number of asylum claims submitted in 2019 is 252.
No-one has been granted international protection in the same period (January – August).
Source: MoI

As of 31 August 2019, 569 identified persons remain at risk of statelessness, of whom 281 with undetermined nationality and 288 persons with unregulated citizenship. Source: MYLA

Working with Partners

UNHCR Skopje collaborates with national institutions, NGOs, UN agencies, and other international partners working in the areas of international protection and eradication of statelessness. Key partnerships have been established and cultivated with: Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Crisis Management Center, Secretariat for European Affairs, and the Ombudsman. We also cooperate with NGOs, primarily with partners: City Red Cross, Macedonian Young Lawyers Association, La Strada Open Gate, Center for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution, Legis and GR Vaksince. In addition, since 2018, a new partnership has been developed with the Iustinianus Primus Law Faculty. In order to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in line with the UN 2030 Agenda and to optimize resources, UNHCR also works closely together with the UN Resident Coordination Office and UN sister Agencies (particularly UNICEF, IOM, UNFPA). Our international partners include the EU Delegation and the relevant EU Agencies the European Asylum Support Office (EASO) and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex), the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and the Council of Europe (CoE).

Our operation has been possible due to the generous support by the international community, most particularly by the United States of America which has made possible a major part of the activities undertaken by UNHCR North Macedonia in 2019.

Summary of key trends observed

Data available to UNHCR RR SEE indicated that the overall number of submitted asylum applications in six countries in June 2019 increased in comparison to June and was the second highest in 2019 (after March). This increase is visible in Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina, while at the same time the overall numbers of applications in other countries remains limited, and could be indicative of the previously reported trends of onward movements throughout the region. The applicants from Iraq, Morocco, Algeria and Pakistan are top 4 countries of origin stated in the Region, while applicants from Syria follow at the fifth place.

• Latest data reveal different and increasing dynamics when it comes to correlation between the numbers of expressions to seek asylum versus actual numbers of lodged applications. Highest number of intentions to apply for asylum are recorded in BiH and Serbia, while less than 8% of the intentions are converted to actual asylum applications. The trend of the relevant data on the asylum decisions and grounds currently indicates that vast majority of cases are rejected and closed due to the abandonment of the asylum procedure and not on the merits of the claim. This trend should be reviewed at the end of year for reliable comparative insight to the concept of intention to seek asylum and how it actually impacts the asylum processing as well as whether it contributes to its efficacy and or would indicate possible trends in the misuse of Asylum Avenue in the countries introducing it.

• Current asylum processing trend analysis indicate that out of the total of 5439 applications for asylum, only 163 first instance decisions ( only 3% of the overall number of applications) have been reached in 2019. At the same time, equally to previously indicated trends regarding very limited number of decisions, (only 29% of them correlate to granting the subsidiary protection status -only in MNE, Serbia and Kosovo, while 44% applications have been rejected). In continuation of previously reported trends, during July 2019, only 16 subsidiary protection statuses have been granted, while 13 requests for asylum have been rejected on the merits.

• Total number of pending decisions recorded in July stands at above 1300. Age, gender and vulnerability indicate that number of applications by female asylum seekers in July still represents only 8% of total applications. The July trend analysis indicates some 180 children (only 17 UASC) among applicants. It is estimated that families registered constitute some 30% of the total applicants for asylum.