Oxfam sends message of support and solidarity to the people affected by deadly cyclone Idai in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi
As Oxfam leaders from across the world, attending our annual board meetings in Kenya, we send our solidarity to the people of Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Malawi whose lives have been devastated by cyclone Idai. Our hearts go out to the families of those who have perished, and the more than 2.6 million people who have been…
Read MoreOxfams appeals for aid as thousands of lives are still at risk after Cyclone Idai
Oxfam’s initial aims are to reach up to 500,000 people – hopefully more – including in partnership with other international and local NGO partners, to help people hit by Cyclone Idai. Oxfam today began appealing for money to help them. The number of casualties and affected people are set to rise from the two million…
Read MoreBudget 2019 delivers historic investment in women’s rights organizations, but fails to invest in accessible and affordable child care
Today the federal government released its last budget before the elections in the fall. It is the first budget since the Canadian Gender Budgeting Act came into force, which requires all budget initiatives to include a gender-based analysis. This is a ground-breaking step to ensure the budget is more inclusive of people in all their…
Read MoreThree civilians killed every day in Yemen despite Stockholm agreements
(Ottawa) Three civilians are being killed every day in Yemen – that’s one person every eight hours – despite agreements reached between the internationally recognized government and the Houthis at talks in Sweden just over three months ago. In December last year the two parties agreed a ceasefire for the key port of Hudaydah and…
Read MoreCyclone Idai leaves trail of death, destruction and homelessness in southern Africa, affected countries appeal for urgent aid
Oxfam will be responding with water, sanitation services, food and other non-food items to people affected by Cyclone Idai that hit Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe on March 14-15. Scores of people have been killed, several hundred more are still missing and almost a million have been left destitute and in need of aid and basic…
Read MoreOxfam condemns New Zealand terror attack and sends message of support and solidarity
The leaders of Oxfam’s agencies worldwide are meeting in Kenya this week and we send a message of strength and solidarity to the people of New Zealand as they respond to the appalling act of extremism against the Kiwi Muslim community, where at least 50 people were shot dead by a white supremacist terrorist, in…
Read MoreBrussels Syria conference: Donors must support without reservation or restriction
As the international community came together for the 7th consecutive year to commit to helping Syrians inside their country, as well as refugees and their hosts, Oxfam called today for a sustained follow-up to ensure political and funding support translates into meaningful improvements for all Syrians. The war is not over: the dozens of people…
Read MoreOxfam and allies blast the EU-Turkey deal on its third anniversary
The European Union’s deal with Turkey to control migration and return “irregular” migrants has led to policies and practices in Greece that are short-sighted, unsustainable, ineffective and dangerous, say Oxfam and 24 other NGOs ahead of the deal’s third anniversary. In an open letter to European leaders, Oxfam and other NGOs say that as many as…
Read MoreBrussels Syria conference: Syrians don’t need handouts, they need to rebuild their lives
Oxfam and the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) today called on governments and other donors to provide more funding to help Syrians recover from eight years of conflict and rebuild their lives. The international agencies also called on the Government of Syria to allow humanitarian organizations access to all those in need of help throughout the…
Read MoreWins for women at home and abroad, but issues like decent work and child care still need to be pushed over the finish line: Oxfam
(Ottawa) Over the past year, the federal government’s bold feminist words have translated into significant policies and strategies to advance gender equality at home and abroad, but new initiatives often lacked the budgets required to achieve a long-lasting impact, according to a new report from Oxfam Canada. In the lead up to International Women’s Day,…
Read MoreCanadian aid organizations applaud Canada for significant funding for Yemen crisis, call for an end to military assistance to parties to the conflict
In response to Canada’s commitment of funding at the third High-Level Pledging Event for the Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen, the CEOs of Save the Children Canada, Oxfam Canada, Oxfam Quebec and CARE Canada, today released the following joint statement: Today, governments took a welcome step to alleviate the suffering of millions of people who are…
Read MoreYemeni crisis forces parents to marry off three-year-old child in desperate attempt to keep family alive
Conflict, rising food prices and plummeting incomes in Yemen are forcing people to resort to desperate measures to stave off hunger, Oxfam said today. The warning comes as rich countries meet in Geneva to pledge aid for the humanitarian crisis in Yemen which has left almost 10 million people one step away from famine. Since…
Read MoreConflict, poverty and hunger driving child marriage in South Sudan: Oxfam
Another generation of girls in South Sudan will miss out on an education, face huge health risks in childbirth and are more likely to face sexual and domestic violence, if efforts to end child marriage are not stepped up, warned international agency Oxfam in a new report published today. In Nyal, in the north of…
Read MoreGlobal sexual and reproductive health and rights leaders call for continued Canadian leadership
Statement: Global sexual and reproductive health and rights leaders call for continued Canadian leadership Attn: The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, M.P., Prime Minister of Canada The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau. M.P., Minister of International Development Ms. Kamal Khera, M.P., Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development The Honourable Bill Morneau, M.P., Minister of Finance The…
Read MoreBillionaires’ fortunes grew by $3.3 billion a day last year as poorest half of humanity saw their wealth fall, says Oxfam
(Ottawa) The fortunes of the world’s billionaires grew by 12 per cent – or $3.3 billion a day – last year, while the 3.8 billion people who make up the poorest half of humanity saw their wealth fall, according to a new Oxfam report. ‘Public Good or Private Wealth’ is being released as four members…
Read MoreOxfam Canada welcomes interim report of Independent Commission on safeguarding
Oxfam proactively set up the Independent Commission as part of the 10-Point Action Plan to strengthen Oxfam’s policies and practices on safeguarding and to transform our organizational culture. Oxfam Canada welcomes the release of the interim report by the Independent Commission on Sexual Misconduct, Accountability and Culture Change. Oxfam proactively set up the Independent Commission…
Read MoreOxfam provides water and sanitation to those hit by Indonesia Tsunami
Oxfam will work with the Government of Indonesia to provide clean water and hygiene facilities to people affected by the tsunami that hit Indonesia’s Sunda Strait. The latest reports put the death toll at 373 with 128 reported missing, over 1,500 injured and more than 11,000 displaced from their homes. These numbers could grow worse…
Read MoreOxfam ready to respond as dozens killed after tsunami in Indonesia’s Sunda Strait
Coastal communities in small islands in the Sundra Strait are believed to be among the worst hit from the tsunami. Oxfam is getting ready to respond to tsunami-affected communities in Indonesia’s Sunda Strait, with reports that more than 43 people have died and hundreds more injured following a tsunami that struck islands in the Strait…
Read MoreHalf a million homeless Yemenis on brink of famine face winter freeze – Oxfam
People forced to flee their homes are set for a winter struggle to survive in areas of the country which are one step away from famine and often without adequate shelter to protect them or fuel to keep them warm as temperatures plummet. More than half a million people who have fled fighting in Yemen…
Read MoreUrgent Action Needed to Ensure Indigenous Women Are Not Sterilized Without Their Consent
Sterilizing women without their free, full, and informed consent is a form of violence and torture. Across Canada and as recently as 2017, Indigenous women report being forcibly or coercively sterilized. Some women were incorrectly told the procedure is reversible. Others were separated from their babies until they consented to a tubal ligation. Forced and…
Read MoreOxfam Canada receives support from the Government of Canada to empower women and girls in East and Southern Africa
The Her Future, Her Choice: Strengthening Young Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights program will directly reach 250,000 women (including young women and girls), and 90,000 men and boys in Ethiopia, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. Thanks to a generous contribution of $19.9 million from the Government of Canada, Oxfam Canada will launch a new program to…
Read More42 NGOs warn that return of refugees to Myanmar now would be dangerous and premature
The involuntary return of refugees from Bangladesh to Myanmar, where their lives and safety remain at grave risk, is a violation of the fundamental principle of non-refoulement. Humanitarian and civil society agencies working in Rakhine State in Myanmar and in the Rohingya refugee camps in Bangladesh are deeply concerned that the repatriation of refugees will…
Read MoreOxfam joins with Yemeni and international organizations to call for an immediate ceasefire in Yemen
With 14 million men, women and children on the brink of famine – half the country’s population – there has never been a more urgent time to act. As humanitarian, human rights and peacebuilding organizations working on Yemen, Oxfam joins with 34 other organizations to welcome tomorrow’s unprecedented coming together of legislators from across nations and parties…
Read MoreOXFAM: Ebola cases in Eastern Congo reaches 300 as mistrust and insecurity hamper response
After years of protracted violence, forced displacement and severe hunger many people are still terrified to go to Ebola treatment centers. In response to the number of Ebola cases in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reaching 300, Chals Wontewe, Oxfam’s Country Director in the DRC, said: “Three months on, mistrust and insecurity are making…
Read MoreRise in hunger an appalling relapse
For the first time in more than a decade, the United Nations reported a sharp increase in hunger around the world. Reacting to the news, Oxfam International’s executive director Winnie Byanyima said: “This is a disgraceful failure of our international leaders and institutions. The ground we’ve painstakingly gained throughout the years can easily be lost;…
Read MoreOxfam Canada Partners with Hot Docs to Raise Awareness about Violence against Women and Girls
Oxfam Canada is thrilled to partner with Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival to tell the stories of brave women speaking up about violence against women and girls in Canada and around the world. From the extraordinary tale of a group of female cyclists defying the rules in the Afghan mountains, to the inspiring activism…
Read MoreOxfam: hundreds of thousands of Congolese forced to flee Angola in need of aid
The area, one of the poorest in DRC, is already struggling with malnutrition, cholera and the threat of a resurgence in conflict. Oxfam warned today of an emerging humanitarian crisis in the Southern Kasaï region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where over 257,000 Congolese people have sought safety having been forced to leave…
Read MoreOxfam condemns human rights abuse and violations committed against Central American migrants
In Guatemala, Oxfam and its local partners have distributed 5,250 personal hygiene kits, 560 children’s food packages, and installed 20 portable toilets, showers, drinking water points, and 50 canopies to protect families from the blazing sun. Oxfam strongly condemns the intimidation and increasingly severe human rights abuses and violations committed by Guatemalan and Mexican police…
Read MoreOne civilian dying every three hours in Yemen fighting
Emergency Response One civilian dying every three hours in Yemen fighting by alvaro | October 26, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Yemenis are facing the triple threat of war, disease and hunger. One civilian has been killed every three hours in fighting in Yemen since the beginning of August, with many more people…
Read MoreOxfam supports migrant caravan stranded in Guatemala with humanitarian aid
Oxfam supports migrant caravan stranded in Guatemala with humanitarian aid by alvaro | October 24, 2018 Replace this with image credit information In response to this humanitarian crisis, Oxfam with its local partners is distributing 3,500 personal hygiene kits and will install 60 latrines, showers and provide access to drinking water. At least 2,500 migrants,…
Read MoreOxfam publishes second progress report for “ten-point action plan” to improve safeguarding
Oxfam publishes second progress report for “ten-point action plan” to improve safeguarding by alvaro | October 23, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Oxfam rolls out stronger global safeguarding systems worldwide Policies and procedures to guide expectations of people’s behaviour and how safeguarding is prevented and managed. It will be how people act, behave…
Read MoreGlobal Index reveals governments split between fighting and fueling inequality
Global Index reveals governments split between fighting and fueling inequality by alvaro | October 9, 2018 Replace this with image credit information The Index comes ahead this week’s meeting of finance ministers, central bank governors, and other economic leaders at the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meeting in Bali, Indonesia. Nigeria, Singapore, and…
Read MoreTsunami survivors face long queues for clean water: Oxfam
Tsunami survivors face long queues for clean water: Oxfam by alvaro | October 9, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Water pipes were damaged in the 7.5-magnitude earthquake that struck on 28 September, and the city has become dependent on a fleet of water trucks that are under huge strain to meet demand. The…
Read MoreOxfam treatment units on way to Palu with clean water in short supply
Oxfam treatment units on way to Palu with clean water in short supply by alvaro | October 4, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Water remains the main issue, with most supply infrastructure, such as pipes, damaged in the earthquake Oxfam water treatment units and purification kits are en route to Palu, Sulawesi, with…
Read MoreOxfam scales up response to deadly Indonesia earthquake and tsunami
Oxfam scales up response to deadly Indonesia earthquake and tsunami by alvaro | October 1, 2018 Replace this with image credit information At least 840 people were killed and hundreds of houses and buildings collapsed have collapsed following the devastating earthquake and tsunami in Sulawesi. Oxfam and partner organisations are scaling up their response to support…
Read MoreOxfam makes plans to reach 100,000 people with basic aid after Indonesia earthquake and tsunami
Oxfam makes plans to reach 100,000 people with basic aid after Indonesia earthquake and tsunami by alvaro | September 30, 2018 Replace this with image credit information An estimated 1.5 million people could be affected by the earthquake and tsunami, in addition to the 830 confirmed fatalities. Oxfam’s local partners are assessing the situation after…
Read MoreOxfam and partners assessing damage after earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia
Oxfam and partners assessing damage after earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia by alvaro | September 29, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Tsunami Palu hits Indonesia A massive earthquake and tsunami hit coastal towns in the country’s central island of Sulawesi on Friday. Oxfam and its local partners in Indonesia are assessing damage after…
Read MoreWomen Foreign Ministers’ Meeting a First in Two Ways
Women Foreign Ministers’ Meeting a First in Two Ways by alvaro | September 26, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Feminist activists share issues and priorities with the first-ever meeting of Women Foreign Ministers. A coalition of Canadian civil society organizations welcome the successful conclusion of a fruitful exchange between participants in the first-ever…
Read MoreCivil society statement on the occasion of the Women Foreign Ministers Meeting
Civil society statement on the occasion of the Women Foreign Ministers Meeting by alvaro | September 20, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Replace this text with the info that will be shown in the bottom-right info icon of the image This is the caption. This element usually goes underneath a photo. Women’s movements…
Read MoreInternational Women’s Rights Coalition Calls on Montreal Summit of Women Foreign Ministers to Champion Women Human Rights Defenders at UN General Assembly
International Women’s Rights Coalition Calls on Montreal Summit of Women Foreign Ministers to Champion Women Human Rights Defenders at UN General Assembly by alvaro | September 20, 2018 Replace this with image credit information In spite of the global risks faced by women human rights defenders, the coalition emphasizes the critical role they continue to…
Read MoreAnnouncing a sector-wide pledge on preventing and addressing sexual misconduct
Announcing a sector-wide pledge on preventing and addressing sexual misconduct by alvaro | September 19, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Oxfam Canada joins the Canadian Council for International Development Canada’s independent national voice for international development and humanitarian organizations, in announcing a sector-wide pledge on preventing and addressing sexual misconduct. While standards and legal…
Read MoreOxfam and partners deliver clean water to isolated communities hit by Mangkhut
Oxfam and partners deliver clean water to isolated communities hit by Mangkhut by alvaro | September 18, 2018 Replace this with image credit information This immediate response is informed by rapid assessments made by Oxfam and local partners that clean water and shelter are the urgent priorities for communities directly affected by the typhoon. Four…
Read MoreOxfam, CDRC prioritize safe water and shelter materials in distribution efforts
Oxfam, CDRC prioritize safe water and shelter materials in distribution efforts by alvaro | September 16, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Thousands of evacuees are currently staying inside churches and schools and do not have access to food, safe water, and sanitation. Tuguegerao City, 1:05 PM (PH Time) – Oxfam responder, April Bulanadi, updates…
Read MoreOxfam and partners prepare to deliver clean water and shelter to thousands in Typhoon Mangkhut aftermath
Oxfam and partners prepare to deliver clean water and shelter to thousands in Typhoon Mangkhut aftermath by alvaro | September 16, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Photo by April Bulanadi | Oxfam A woman inspects what is left on their home after Typhoon Mangkhut lashed the region taken in September 15, 2018. The…
Read MoreOmpong’s “destructive force”– disaster preparedness committees activated
Ompong’s “destructive force”– disaster preparedness committees activated by alvaro | September 14, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Photo: Oxfam Philippines After Ompong Landfall Tuguegerao City. Ompong is the 15th storm to hit the Philippines this year and, so far, the strongest for 2018. Tuguegerao City, 6:49AM – The joint assessment teams of Oxfam…
Read MoreOxfam closely monitoring Super Typhoon Mangkhut bearing down on Philippines
Oxfam closely monitoring Super Typhoon Mangkhut bearing down on Philippines by alvaro | September 13, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Known locally as Ompong, the super typhoon is predicted to make landfall in north of the main island of Luzon on Saturday morning and is packing devastating winds gusts up to 250 km/h.…
Read MoreOxfam, local partners ready to respond as “highly threatening” Typhoon Ompong nears
Oxfam, local partners ready to respond as “highly threatening” Typhoon Ompong nears by alvaro | September 13, 2018 Replace this with image credit information The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) estimates that 4.3 million people live in the projected path of this destructive storm. Oxfam and its local partners are ready to…
Read MoreEscalation in fighting around Hudaydah risks cutting off life-saving supplies for millions of Yemenis
Escalation in fighting around Hudaydah risks cutting off life-saving supplies for millions of Yemenis by alvaro | September 13, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Most of the 600,000 people who live in Hudaydah, Yemen’s third biggest city, do not have electricity or water. Oxfam is warning of catastrophic repercussions for people in Yemen…
Read MoreOxfam: fear and violence could still undermine efforts to contain Ebola in DR Congo
Oxfam: fear and violence could still undermine efforts to contain Ebola in DR Congo by alvaro | September 11, 2018 Replace this with image credit information New cases in urban areas mean virus remains a threat New cases of Ebola found in urban areas over the last few days show the outbreak in the Democratic…
Read MoreAugust the cruellest month in Yemen – Oxfam 300 children amongst almost 1000 civilian casualties
August the cruellest month in Yemen – Oxfam 300 children amongst almost 1000 civilian casualties by alvaro | September 7, 2018 Replace this with image credit information The grim warning comes as the first talks in two years take place in Geneva to try to secure peace between the Saudi-backed forces and Houthi rebels. August…
Read MoreFate of millions in Idlib in international hands as disaster looms: Oxfam
Fate of millions in Idlib in international hands as disaster looms: Oxfam by alvaro | September 6, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Oxfam is calling on the entire international community to urgently work together to prevent a new humanitarian catastrophe, which the UN estimates could displace 800,000 people. Two top level international meetings…
Read MoreFresh quakes in Lombok cause mass panic and worsens need for urgent aid
Fresh quakes in Lombok cause mass panic and worsens need for urgent aid by alvaro | August 22, 2018 Replace this with image credit information On Tuesday at least a dozen shocks of 5-Richter magnitude have followed on the heels of Sunday’s big quakes of 6.3 and 6.9 in East Lombok. Strong earthquakes and aftershocks…
Read More$72 million needed to protect Rohingya refugee women missing out on vital aid
$72 million needed to protect Rohingya refugee women missing out on vital aid by alvaro | August 19, 2018 Replace this with image credit information More than a third of women surveyed by Oxfam and partner agencies said they did not feel safe or comfortable going to collect water or using toilets and shower cubicles.…
Read MoreJoint statement on Canada’s support for women human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia
Joint statement on Canada’s support for women human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia by alvaro | August 10, 2018 Replace this with image credit information We join Canada in urging Saudi Arabia to release women’s rights activists Samar Badawi and Nassima al-Sada and commend Minister Freeland for her uncompromising stand for human rights. The undersigned…
Read MoreMore lifesaving aid needed urgently as a third big quake hits Lombok: Oxfam
More lifesaving aid needed urgently as a third big quake hits Lombok: Oxfam by alvaro | August 9, 2018 Replace this with image credit information With the latest quake adding to the tens of thousands already in temporary shelters and under open skies, there is an increasing need for water, food, shelter, medical supplies, and…
Read MoreOxfam Provides Drinking Water and Shelter to Thousands as 600,000 are Hit by Indonesia Earthquake
Oxfam Provides Drinking Water and Shelter to Thousands as 600,000 are Hit by Indonesia Earthquake by alvaro | August 6, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Oxfam is providing clean drinking water and tarpaulin shelter sheets to 5,000 survivors after 7-R magnitude earthquake hit Lombok Island in Indonesia earlier today. Oxfam is providing clean…
Read MoreOxfam training 119 staff to become investigators and invests over $3M as part of package to strengthen safeguarding worldwide
Oxfam has held initial training courses for 119 staff to become new safeguarding investigators as part of its “Ten-Point Action Plan” launched in February. Independent Commission appointed and Safeguarding review on track Initial training for 119 staff to become new safeguarding investigators More than $3M investment in safeguarding across Oxfam globally Staff reference systems introduced…
Read MoreOxfam reaction to announcement on end of Ebola in DRC
Oxfam reaction to announcement on end of Ebola in DRC by alvaro | July 25, 2018 Replace this with image credit information The latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has officially ended. In response to the announcement on Tuesday, that the latest Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has officially…
Read MoreOntario Superior Court’s decision on charities and political activities a win for the charitable sector and democracy, says Oxfam Canada
Ontario Superior Court’s decision on charities and political activities a win for the charitable sector and democracy, says Oxfam Canada by alvaro | July 20, 2018 Replace this with image credit information This is an important step for Canadian charities, enabling them to regain their constitutional right to freedom of expression and engage actively in…
Read MoreOXFAM: Thousands of Syrians out of reach of aid
OXFAM: Thousands of Syrians out of reach of aid by alvaro | July 16, 2018 Replace this with image credit information Amid scorching summer temperatures, thousands of Syrians have been forced from their homes due to the recent fighting in Dar’a Thousands of Syrians forced from their homes due to the recent fighting in Dar’a…
Read MoreOXFAM: Hodeidah cannot be allowed to become a graveyard
Conditions for over half a million people in Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah are steadily deteriorating with food in short supply and seriously damaged water and sewage systems increasing the risk of cholera, Oxfam said today. More than 80,000 people have fled their homes, despite a recent reduction in the intensity of the fighting, while…
Read MoreRohingya refugees unprepared as monsoon rains, flooding and landslides continue
The monsoon rains falling on the Rohingya refugee camps near Cox’s Bazar, southern Bangladesh, have caused over 130 landslides, damaged 3,300 shelters and affected 28,000 refugees, Oxfam said. A survey of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh carried out by Oxfam before the start of the monsoon season found that more than half were almost completely unprepared…
Read MoreOxfam provides desperately needed food in DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak
Oxfam has started to provide desperately needed food to thousands of people caught up in the Ebola outbreak in Equateur province. Oxfam is distributing rice, beans and flour, to about 4,525 people. It has already started in Mbandaka – the provincial capital – and plans to extend to rural communities. This is in addition providing…
Read MoreHodeida offensive must be stopped to save lives and the chance for peace
The UN and NGOs received warnings over the weekend for staff to evacuate Hodeida by Tuesday ahead of the offensive, affirming the humanitarian community’s worst fears for Yemen. The UN peace envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths has already said that this attack would “take peace off the table in a single stroke,” and the UN…
Read MoreG7 offers piecemeal solutions to reduce economic inequality and close gender gap
Reacting to the outcome of the G7 summit in Quebec, Canada, Oxfam International executive director Winnie Byanyima said: “The growing split among G7 leaders is bad news for millions of women and men around the world struggling for a better life. Extreme economic and gender inequality, fueled by decades of misguided policies from the G7,…
Read MoreOver 12,000 people evacuated due to continued volcanic activity in Guatemala, Oxfam provides humanitarian aid
More than 12,000 people have evacuated from their homes due to the eruption of Volcán de Fuego, which continues to spew fresh torrents of lava and rocks, thick ash and clouds of smoke. The official death toll stands at 99, but at least 197 people remain unaccounted for. Ana María Méndez, Oxfam in Guatemala Country Director,…
Read MoreG7 must make the economy work for women
The Group of Seven leaders must agree on concrete steps to combat women’s economic inequality and make the economy work for women, said Oxfam on the eve of the summit in Quebec, Canada. “Our global economy is generating extreme wealth on the backs of the poorest women—women who sew our clothes, grow our food and…
Read MoreYemen fighting near Hodeidah port threatens to cut lifeline to millions
Escalation of fighting around Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah threatens to cut off essential supplies to millions of people who are already one step away from famine, Oxfam warned today. The fighting has already forced hundreds of families to flee their homes. Oxfam’s Country Director in Yemen, Muhsin Siddiquey said: “Yemen is already the world’s…
Read MoreOxfam in Guatemala is assessing its humanitarian response to “Volcano of Fire” eruption
The June 3rd eruption of the “Volcan de Fuego” in Guatemala has claimed 65 lives, displaced 3,500 people and affected at least 1.7 million people, according to local media reports. It is expected that the death toll will rise in the coming hours, given that there are several communities near the volcano that authorities have…
Read MoreCanada provides assistance after two cyclones wreak havoc on Fiji islands
Canada is providing assistance to the Fiji islands after two cyclones struck in one week in April 2018 and forced more than 14,000 people to seek shelter in evacuation centres. At least eight people died during the two storms, Cyclone Josie (Category 1) and Cyclone Keni (Category 3), which caused extensive flooding, numerous landslides and…
Read MoreUrgent action needed to prevent famine in South Sudan – Oxfam
Oxfam today called for urgent action to prevent millions of people being hit by famine in South Sudan. The warning follows a report last week from the Famine Early Warning Network (FEWSNET) which said that a fifth of households in Pibor could already be classed as hitting famine levels of hunger. Four years of conflict…
Read MoreCorporate support for disclosing oil and mining deals is improving but more work needed to turn words into reality
A new Oxfam survey of 40 oil, gas and mining companies has found that they are warming to the idea of disclosing their lucrative deals signed with governments, but much work remains to be done. Oxfam welcomes the progress made by major extractive companies in supporting the move to open up contracts and urges them to work…
Read MoreWorse to come as first rains cause damage in Rohingya camps in Bangladesh
Damage and fear caused by the first rains of the monsoon season in the Rohingya refugee camps are an ominous warning of what is to come Oxfam said today. Oxfam’s Rohingya Response Advocacy Manager Dorothy Sang said the worst is still to come when the monsoon seasons hits Bangladesh with full ferocity from late May to…
Read MoreFirst-ever feminist summit on sidelines of G7 to tackle top global issues
(Ottawa) As Justin Trudeau prepares to host G7 leaders in Charlevoix in June, the firstever feminist summit on its sidelines — W7: Feminist Visions for the G7 – kicks off in Ottawa this week, bringing together some 70 women from 20 countries to tackle the pressing global issues of our time. The W7 brings together…
Read MoreOxfam Canada Partners with Hot Docs to Raise Awareness about Violence against Women and Girls
Oxfam Canada is proud to partner with Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival to tell the stories of brave women speaking up about violence against women and girls in Canada and around the world. From the extraordinary tale of a group of female cyclists defying the rules in the Afghan mountains, to the inspiring activism…
Read MoreOxfam reaction to Syria air strikes
In response to the U.S., French and British air strikes on Syria, Moutaz Adham, Country Director, Oxfam in Syria said: “While chemical attacks should be effectively deterred, choosing to use military force to do so risks escalating the crisis, putting civilians, who have already suffered so much, at even greater risk. “World leaders must work…
Read MoreOxfam announces Zainab Bangura and Katherine Sierra to co-lead Independent Commission on Sexual Misconduct
Zainab Bangura, a former Under-Secretary General of the United Nations,and Katherine Sierra, a former Vice-President of the World Bank, will co-chair an Independent Commission on Sexual Misconduct, Accountability and Culture Change, Oxfam said today. The Independent Commission has been formed in response to incidents of sexual misconduct by Oxfam staff in countries including Chad and…
Read MoreMore wins for women at home and abroad, but progress lacking on work and wages: Oxfam
(Ottawa) Over the past year, the federal government’s bold feminist words have translated into tangible action to advance gender equality at home and abroad, but progress is lacking on women’s work and pay equity, according to a new report from Oxfam Canada. On the eve of International Women’s Day, the second annual scorecard, Turning Feminist…
Read MoreBudget 2018 takes strong steps on gender equality, with some victories for women at home and abroad
The federal government released Budget 2018 today, with a focus on advancing gender equality. Oxfam Canada and Oxfam-Québec applaud the government for listening to women, demonstrating a clear determination to level the playing field and end gender-based violence – a key impediment to women’s economic empowerment. Over the past year, the government has made good…
Read MoreOxfam releases report into allegations of sexual misconduct in Haiti
A full copy of Oxfam’s final internal report into allegations of sexual misconduct and other unacceptable behaviour during Oxfam’s humanitarian response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake has been made public today. Oxfam is publishing the report, written in 2011, in order to be as transparent as possible about the decisions made during the investigation and in recognition of…
Read MoreOxfam asks women’s rights leaders to carry out urgent independent review
An independent commission will be set up with immediate power to carry out a wide-ranging review of Oxfam’s practices and culture, including its handling of past cases of sexual misconduct. It comes as Oxfam announces a comprehensive plan of action to strengthen safeguarding systems across the organization, and stamp out abuse. Oxfam International Executive Director Winnie Byanyima…
Read MoreOxfam Canada Statement on Sexual Misconduct in Haiti in 2011
In 2011, several Oxfam UK staff were accused of sexual exploitation and abuse in Haiti during the earthquake response. Their behavior was totally unacceptable – an appalling mark against the high values we set for ourselves at Oxfam. At the time, Oxfam Great Britain operated separately from Oxfam Canada. As far as we know, no…
Read MoreRichest 1% bagged 82% of global wealth created last year, poorest half of humanity got nothing: Oxfam
(Ottawa) Eighty two per cent of global wealth generated last year went to the richest one per cent, while the 3.7 billion people who make up the poorest half of humanity saw no increase, according to a new Oxfam report. ‘Reward Work, Not Wealth’, is being released as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau joins political and…
Read MoreOxfam Canada welcomes new ombudsperson to address human rights impacts of Canadian business abroad
(OTTAWA) Oxfam Canada welcomes news that the federal government is creating the office of Canadian Ombudsperson for Responsible Enterprise. For years, human rights advocates, including Oxfam, have called on Canada to hold companies accountable for their actions abroad. Today, the government heeded these calls and committed to appoint an ombudsperson with powers to investigate allegations…
Read MoreINGO Joint Statement on the complete opening of Hudaydah Port
Seventeen aid agencies working in Yemen are urging for the complete and unconditional opening of Hudaydah port to allow for the uninterrupted flow of food and fuel. A thirty-day concession period enabling the delivery of commercial supplies has brought only brief reprieve within the context of a sustained blockade on Yemen’s Red Sea Ports. Parties…
Read MoreYemen being pushed ever closer to famine
Yemen is being pushed ever closer to famine after 1,000 days of a brutal war, exacerbated by a crippling blockade of its key northern ports which is starving its people of food, fuel and medicine, Oxfam warned today. Some 90 per cent of Yemen’s food has to be imported. Since a Saudi-led coalition imposed a…
Read MoreRohingya refugees say no return to Myanmar without equal rights
(Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh) Rohingya refugees interviewed by Oxfam in Bangladesh say they will not go back to Myanmar until their safety can be guaranteed and they have equal rights, including being able to work and travel freely. Women in particular were deeply traumatized by their experiences – including rape and seeing loved ones killed –…
Read MoreOxfam Canada thanks Canadians for their generosity in helping Rohingya refugees
(OTTAWA) Oxfam Canada would like to thank Canadians who opened their hearts and wallets to help deliver life-saving aid to Rohingya refugees, more than half of whom are women and girls in need of protection. Since August, more than 646,000 Rohingya people have crossed over to Bangladesh. The overcrowded camps are inadequate to support such…
Read MoreJOINT STATEMENT: Immediate Ceasefire Needed – Yemeni Civilians Cannot Take Any More Suffering
International humanitarian agencies in Yemen are urgently calling on all warring parties for an immediate ceasefire in Sana’a. Escalating clashes between forces aligned with former President Ali Abdullah Saleh and the Houthis are trapping civilian populations across Yemen’s governorates and exacerbating an already catastrophic humanitarian situation. The Yemeni population simply cannot take any more blows. …
Read MoreOxfam Canada launches project to ‘Power Up’ women’s political participation in Indonesia
(Jakarta) Thanks to a $2.6 million contribution from the Canadian government, Oxfam Canada will harness the power of technology to help Indonesian women develop a stronger voice in their communities and advocate for their rights. Over the next three years, PowerUp: Shaping Women’s Futures through Technology aims to reach 12,000 people across 52 villages in…
Read MoreOxfam Canada receives federal funding to empower women and girls in Philippines
(Ottawa) Thanks to a contribution of $17.5 million from the Government of Canada, Oxfam Canada will empower women and girls in six disadvantaged and conflict-affected regions of the Philippines with gender-sensitive sexual and reproductive health and rights services. The Sexual Health and Empowerment (SHE) Women’s Voice and Leadership project will reach approximately 300,000 people over…
Read MoreHumanitarian agencies condemn the closure of Yemen’s air, sea and land ports
Oxfam and 17 other humanitarian agencies expressed serious concern today over the Saudi Arabia-led coalition’s decision to temporarily close all entry points to Yemen, effectively sealing the country off. The agencies demand that humanitarian operations be allowed to resume immediately, and request clarity on the planned duration of the current closure and contingencies to allow…
Read MoreOxfam Canada welcomes federal legislation to target sexual harassment and violence in the workplace
(Ottawa) Oxfam Canada welcomes the federal government’s announcement today of legislation aimed at addressing sexual harassment and violence in the workplace. This is an important step to ensure women working at the federal level feel safe and know they will be supported if they speak out. The current sexual harassment provisions are weak and do…
Read MoreOxfam Canada welcomes federal Crisis Relief Fund for Rohingya refugees
(Ottawa) Oxfam Canada welcomes the Government of Canada’s announcement that for every eligible donation made by individuals to registered Canadian charities until November 28, 2017, it will contribute an equivalent amount to the Myanmar Crisis Relief Fund. That means every dollar will have double the impact. “Canada’s leadership comes at a critical time, with the concentration…
Read MoreMore funds needed to help Rohingya women who have fled rape and violence
There are now more than 120,000 pregnant women and mothers with new babies struggling to survive in cramped camps and settlements that are ill-equipped to deal with their needs. Among them are many pregnant teenagers and victims of rape. According to Cox’s Bazar Civil Surgeon’s office, 50 infants are born daily into dire conditions in…
Read MoreTourism’s Dirty Secret: Oxfam Canada highlights exploitation of women hotel housekeepers
(Ottawa) Profits in the global hotel industry are based on the systematic exploitation of housekeepers, the majority of whom are poor women living in fear of losing their jobs, says a new report by Oxfam Canada entitled Tourism’s Dirty Secret: The Exploitation of Hotel Housekeepers. In interviews with current and former hotel housekeepers in Canada,…
Read MoreWorld Food Day in Chad: Oxfam talks to the forgotten people within a silent crisis
More than 335,000 people continue to go hungry in the Lake Region of Chad – a place where only ten doctors are currently working and the international community has only funded $40 million of a $121 million humanitarian appeal. “Today, on World Food Day, more than 200,000 children in the Lake Region of Chad are…
Read MoreOxfam warns threat of disease rapidly rising as thousands more Rohingya arrive daily in Bangladesh
Oxfam warned today that an outbreak of cholera would devastate the camps in Bangladesh where hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees are without safe water, shelter or enough food to eat. More than 50,000 newly arrived refugees have been hit by diarrhea, pneumonia, skin disease and acute malnutrition as aid agencies struggle to meet the…
Read MoreRace to prevent disease as thousands more Rohingya arrive daily in Bangladesh
Aid workers are in a race against time to stop the rapid spread of disease as thousands of Rohingya people arrive in Bangladesh every day. Oxfam warned that an outbreak of cholera would devastate the camps where hundreds of thousands are without safe water, shelter or enough food to eat. More than 50,000 newly arrived…
Read MoreYemen cholera outbreak now the world’s largest on record
Yemen’s five-month old cholera crisis is now the world’s largest outbreak since records began, Oxfam said today, as the number of suspected cases rose to over 755,000. The Yemen outbreak has overtaken the 754,373 suspected cases recorded in Haiti in the six years between 2010 and 2015. More than 2,100 people have already died from…
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