CERF Humanitarian Response to El Niño 2023-2024

This report outlines the proactive approach adopted by the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) in response to the anticipated humanitarian impacts of the 2023-2024 El Niño event. It documents the findings from an independent review of CERF’s actions during the previous El Niño episodes, particularly the 2015-2016 event, which indicated that earlier fund disbursement could have increased effectiveness. The report details the allocation of $62.1 million across nine countries to assist approximately 2.1 million people. It highlights CERF’s strategy to optimize humanitarian responses through anticipatory actions and continuous monitoring of the global El Niño situation. The report includes specific allocations for various emergencies such as droughts and floods, reflecting CERF's commitment to enhancing early action and rapid response capabilities. Furthermore, it discusses the collaborative efforts with OCHA country offices to identify regions at risk and prepare for potential humanitarian crises.