BRUSSELS – The European Commission has announced emergency assistance of €190.000 to respond to serious floods and to assist people in need in Albania.
In response to heavy rainfall that has affected the territory of Albania since 30 November, the European Commission provides €190,000 in emergency funding to assist the most affected populations. This financial support comes in addition to the substantial EU support already provided through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
“The EU stands in full solidarity with the Albanian people and authorities. We provided material support in recent weeks through our EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Now we are also helping financially to further help those affected, to help provide access to health services and essential medicines. The funds will also help scale up the response in the fields of food assistance, water and sanitation, and shelter. Our thoughts continue to be with all those affected and the local first responders.” said Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides.
It is estimated that 21, 000 people are in need of assistance. 8, 000 people are particularly affected in the south of Albania.
This month, Albania experienced extreme and intense rainfall with many rivers bursting their banks and triggering floods in the Southern regions of the country. As a result, overflowing rivers damaged road infrastructure, and both private and public property. Assistance was provided via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism where several European countries have provided water pumps and hoses, life vests, power generators, raincoats and water boots, blankets and clean-up kits. The delivery of these items has been coordinated via the EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism and in close cooperation with the Albanian authorities.