The humanitarian situation in Yemen continues to deteriorate with four out of five people needing humanitarian assistance. The breakdown in the healthcare system, in particular, is denying thousands of Yemenis access to essential health services. More than 70 health centres have been damaged or destroyed by the conflict. Health facilities in 16 out of 22 governorates are either not functioning or partially functioning. The UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Stephen O’Brien, during a three-day mission to Sana’a condemned attacks on medical facilities. He stated, “the best humanitarian relief that can be provided is an end to the conflict. I urged the authorities, as I urge other parties to the conflict, to return to political negotiations without delay to reach a negotiated solution.” 

 

In addition, violence against aid workers and civilians continue to characterize the conflict in Yemen, hindering the delivery of urgent humanitarian assistance. Since March 2015, 13 health workers have died and 31 have been injured.

 

So far this year, the humanitarian community has reached some 4 million people with assistance and protection. However, the Humanitarian Response Plan for 2016 is only 46 per cent funded, leaving a gap of US$880 million.