Organised by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Nations, the High-Level Event brought together high representatives of states, international organisations, funds and international NGOs. The aim of the event was to take stock of humanitarian needs and collect donations, as well as to promote the respect of humanitarian principles, international humanitarian law and the safe and unhindered humanitarian access. The participants were addressed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and Emergency Relief Coordinator Mark Lowcock.

In his address, State Secretary Kajzer expressed concern about the dire humanitarian situation. He also thanked the UN for its efforts, particularly the call for an immediate ceasefire and endeavours to reach a political solution. 

Since 2016, Slovenia has regularly responded to the emergency in Yemen at a bilateral level and through EU mechanisms. The total amount allocated so far for humanitarian aid for Yemen amounts to EUR 280,000. Channelled through the ICRC, the new pledge amounting to EUR 20,000 will add to the efforts by addressing emergency needs related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Yemen continues to face the largest humanitarian crisis in the world. According to the UN data, 24 million people in Yemen (80% of the population) depend on foreign aid. 20 million people are suffering from hunger; over 5 million are internally displaced. The humanitarian situation has been further aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which poses additional burden on Yemenis, drained by the long-lasting conflict.