ReliefWeb

This appeal seeks CHF 6,811,539 (USD 6.09 million or EUR 4.13 million) to fund the planned programmes that are to be implemented in 2008-2009. The overall budget is CHF 8,923,817 (USD 7.98 million or EUR 5.4 million).

This appeal document briefly covers the main outcomes the programmes seek to achieve over the next two years. More detailed information is provided in the 2008-2009 Plan and Summary Matrix.

In a world of global challenges, continued poverty, inequity, and increasing vulnerability to disasters and disease, the International Federation with its global network, works to accomplish its Global Agenda, partnering with local community and civil society to prevent and alleviate human suffering from disasters, diseases and public health emergencies.

Current context

Southeast Asia, comprising 11 countries, is a region of opportunities and progress although significant challenges to reduce vulnerability remain. Disasters continue to be a regular feature; some of the major ones have seen widespread death and destruction, such as storms in Timor-Leste, floods in Viet Nam, and dengue fever in Cambodia and many neighbouring countries. Political instability also continues in several countries, including Thailand. There is also the potential for an avian influenza pandemic and the accelerating spread of HIV/AIDS.

The region's national societies continue to increase their reach and impact in many instances, in their efforts to reduce vulnerability. More capacity in some areas, though, is still needed. This appeal, along with other means of partner support, seeks resources for the Federation's Southeast Asia regional office to help the national societies in the region to build on success and increase their impact on the lives of vulnerable people in the region.

Through their extensive national networks and huge volunteer base, Red Cross Red Crescent societies in Southeast Asia are uniquely positioned in their respective countries to play an effective auxiliary role with their governments to address humanitarian challenges in line with the UN's Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), as well as other international strategies, such as risk reduction and shelter.

For further information specifically related to this Appeal, please contact:

Bangkok: Alan Bradbury, acting Head of Southeast Asia Regional Office; email: alan.bradbury@ifrc.org Tel:+ 66 26661 8201

Kuala Lumpur: Jagan Chapagain, Deputy Head of Zone, email: jagan.chapagain@ifrc.org; Tel:+ 60 3 2161 0892; fax: + 60 3 2161 1210