NRC's Rasmusson new UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Uganda
Astrid Sehl, NRC
Website: http://www.nrc.no
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Elisabeth Rasmusson has been appointed by UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Jan Egeland as Humanitarian Coordinator in Uganda today.
Rasmusson is NRC Resident Representative in Geneva and Head of Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).
She is the first individual from an NGO to be appointed as UN Humanitarian Coordinator, and also the first Norwegian in this position.
- As Human Coordinator in Uganda, my responsibilities include ensuring that appropriate humanitarian assistance is rapidly delivered to the victims of the complex emergency, and that their rights are protected. I will be responsible for the overall coordination between the UN and other humanitarian aid agencies, mobilising resources and advocacy for the beneficiaries, Rasmusson said.
As Head of IDMC, Rasmusson has contributed to moving the plight of the world's 24 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) on the top of the international humanitarian agenda. Over the past five years, she has led the comprehensive task of monitoring the situation of IDPs worldwide.
- The Norwegian Refugee Council congratulates Ms Rasmusson and recognizes her tremendous efforts as head of IDMC. Also, more broadly, we consider the appointment as a recognition of the important contribution of non-governmental organizations to the overall humanitarian response. Non-governmental organizations possess invaluable experience and knowledge that is needed to to improve the delivery of humanitarian relief, NRC Secretary General Tomas C. Archer said.
Rasmusson has had a distinguished career working with the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Norwegian Refugee Council in numerous locations, often in conflict situations. She has a strong background in management and policy-making, particularly in relation to refugees and internally displaced people. This experience should prove invaluable in dealing with the current emergency in Uganda.
- The people of Uganda have been victims of injustice over the past 20 years. Internally displaced persons living in camps lack protection, food, health care and education. Displaced Ugandans have a right to live in dignity and to return back home, Rasmusson said.
Read more about The Norwegian Refugee Council: www.nrc.no
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre: http://www.internal-displacement.org/
For more information, please contact Astrid Sehl
Media & Communication Officer
Norwegian Refugee Council
Mobile: +47 92284752
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