Ms. Stenseth has the honor of succeeding Mr. Manuel Bessler, Humanitarian Aid Delegate of the Swiss Confederation. Chairpersons and members of the CERF Advisory Group serve in their individual capacity, and not as representatives of their countries or Governments.
Established by the UN General Assembly in 2005, the CERF Advisory Group provides the Secretary-General with periodic policy guidance and expert advice on the use and impact of CERF.
The Fund ensures that aid can quickly reach those who need it when acute crises arise, and provides sorely needed funding for underfunded emergencies. On average, 20 million people receive urgent medical assistance through CERF each year, and 10 million people receive food aid.
Norway has been a leading donor country to CERF since its establishment in 2005 and will continue to be one of the main contributors in the years to come. Norway has provided NOK 380 million for the fund in 2017. We would like to wish Ms. Stenseth the best of luck during her time serving as chair of the CERF Advisory Group.