UN experts calls for solidarity with people affected by Idai

UN human rights experts* have called on States, international organisations and private actors to show solidarity with Southern Africa countries after Cyclone Idai left hundreds of people dead, hundreds of thousands displaced and caused billions of dollars in damage.

Idai caused catastrophic damage in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi, leaving more than 700 people dead and hundreds more missing, and affected more than 3 million other persons, from 9 to 21 March 2019.

Experts estimate the cyclone was the costliest tropical cyclone ever in the South-West Indian Ocean basin, including in terms of a negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights. “Strong winds and widespread flooding have ripped apart roads, bridges, houses, schools and health facilities and submerged vast swathes of agricultural land,” the experts said.

“Although most river levels may have now peaked, flooding remains severe and the full scale of the disaster has yet to become clear as search and rescue operations continue. With little clean drinking water available, cholera cases have been reported and there is a high risk of outbreaks of other waterborne diseases.

"The magnitude of this catastrophe sends a clear message that much more must be done in terms of disaster planning, emergency preparedness, and climate adaptation. Scientific evidence suggests these types of event will become more frequent and more severe in the future.

“In line with the UN Charter, the Draft UN Declaration on Human Rights and International Solidarity, and other global and regional treaties and instruments, we call upon States, international organisations, civil society, and private individuals and companies to show solidarity with the affected States, communities, families and individuals.

“Affected countries need help to support the numerous efforts undertaken by civil society organisations, including disaster relief agencies to bring comfort and relief to those affected by the devastation caused by this cyclone.”

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