The aid community in Nepal saluted contributions made by good-willed individuals and communities to save lives and alleviate the suffering in the aftermath of the back-to-back earthquakes, the United Nations said in a statement marking World Humanitarian Day.

The response launched by the government of Nepal in the immediate aftermath of the disasters has seen significant support from the international and humanitarian communities and private sector alike, said the UN. “Achieving as much as we have to date would have been impossible without the leadership of the government and the commitment of the people and communities of Nepal themselves,” said Jamie McGoldrick, humanitarian coordinator in Nepal. 

Giulia Vallese, representative of Population Fund (UNFPA) in Kathmandu, expressed strong solidarity with the women, men, youth and children who were affected by the earthquake. “And we salute the humanitarian workers who strive to meet their needs and uphold their human rights and dignity,” she said.

We salute all officials of the government of Nepal, security personnel, development partners, aid workers and young volunteers who responded to immediate and special needs of the earthquake-affected people, she added.

“We appreciate the female community health volunteers and health workers from many health facilities and community hospitals for their tireless efforts to respond to the needs of women and girls, including those who are pregnant and lactating.”

“We also pay tribute to those security personnel who cleared the roads blocked by landslides and heavy rains in many districts and allowed life-saving supplies to be distributed to the communities.” 

The UN agency also called for improving humanitarian effectiveness, increased action and funding for sexual and reproductive health services, tackling gender-based violence and the need to involve the affected populations in the response, particularly women and young people.