11 April 2025 — In response to the devastating 2022 floods and the ongoing needs of Afghan refugees and their host communities, the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Program (EU) and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) have launched a comprehensive assistance initiative in Pakistan. Funded with €8.6 million from the EU and implemented by the IRC, the program delivers integrated services in Protection, Health, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Education in Emergencies, and multi-purpose cash assistance across affected districts in Balochistan and Sindh.
Working closely with key partners — including the Medical Emergency Resilience Foundation (MERF), Tameer-e-Khalq Foundation (TKF), Taraqee Foundation (TF), Thardeep Rural Development Program (TRDP), Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO), and with coordination support from the Pakistan Humanitarian Forum (PHF) — the IRC-led program aligned with the strategic goals of the 2022 Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP) for the Afghan situation and the 2022 Flood Response Plan. Its design was also developed in consultation with relevant government departments, district administrations, and implementing partners.
IRC Pakistan Country Director, Waqas Dar, said:
“Together with our dedicated partners, we’re making a meaningful impact in communities recovering from natural disasters and displacement. Our work goes beyond emergency relief — it’s about empowering people to rebuild their lives with strength and dignity.”
To date, the project has reached over 1.1 million people with essential, community-focused services. These include the rehabilitation of 33 schools and 22 health facilities, along with the provision of essential medicines and educational supplies. As part of the Accelerated Learning Program, 756 children have been enrolled, helping them continue their education and gain critical life skills.
Recognizing the urgent need for financial support among displaced and flood-affected families, the EU initiative has provided multi-purpose cash assistance to more than 16,000 households. This flexible support enables families to meet their immediate needs while promoting dignity, resilience, and self-reliance.
The floods significantly disrupted WASH services. With support from the EU, 50 water supply schemes have been completed. To address the challenge of open defecation, 1,300 latrine kits were distributed. In addition, to support the health and dignity of women and adolescent girls, nearly 11,000 dignity kits were provided, offering essential hygiene items.