Humanitarian crises monitoring: coronavirus in developing countries: secondary impacts

International Development Committee Closed Inquiry
Opened: 2 Apr 2020 Closed: 1 Dec 2021 Parliament page
Report and Government response published Within its report, the IDC warned the secondary impacts – ranging from non-covid healthcare to hunger, and crippling international debt to gender quality – could be more severe than the virus itself to countries in the Global South. The IDC found widespread disruptions to routine … Read more
19 Recommendations
1 Conclusion
2 Reports
8 Oral sessions
1 Letter
8 Events
Activity timeline 13 events
26 Apr
2021
Report published
26 Jan
2021
Report published
26 Jan
2021
Report published
24 Nov
2020
Oral evidence
13 Nov
2020
Report published
10 Nov
2020
Oral evidence
15 Sep
2020
Oral evidence
6 Jul
2020
Oral evidence
2 Jul
2020
Oral evidence
16 Jun
2020
Oral evidence
4 Jun
2020
Oral evidence
19 May
2020
Correspondence
Oral evidence sessions 8 sessions
24 Nov 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: coronavirus in developing countries: secondary impacts
Darren Welch · Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Gwen Hines · Save the Children Jennifer Miquel · UNFPA Jordan Lee Webster · ActionAid UK Matthew Wyatt · Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Rachel Turner · Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Wendy Morton · Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
10 Nov 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: coronavirus in developing countries: secondary impacts
Donal Brown · International Fund for Agricultural Development Dr Graham MacKay · Bond Dr Louisa Cox · Fairtrade Foundation Lamis Al-Iryani · Social Fund for Development - Yemen Sultana Begum · Norwegian Refugee Council Tim Jones · Jubilee Debt Campaign
15 Sep 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: impact of the coronavirus
Dr Timothy Russell · London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Kate White · Medecins Sans Frontieres Linh Schroeder · International Committee of the Red Cross Professor Azra Ghani · School of Public Health, Imperial College Professor Francesco Checchi OBE · London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Selena Victor · Mercy Corps
6 Jul 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: impact of coronavirus
Dr Charlotte Watts · Department for International Development Matthew Wyatt · Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Nick Dyer · Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office Rachel Glennerster · University of Chicago Rt Hon Anne-Marie Trevelyan · Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
2 Jul 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: impact of coronavirus
Dr Josie Golding · Wellcome Trust (part of both CEPI and the Covid Therapeutics Accelerator (CTA) partnership) Dr Samia Saad · Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations Professor David Heymann CBE · Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND)
16 Jun 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: impact of coronavirus
Amanda Glassman · Center for Global Development Daniel Graymore · Department for International Development Dr Charlotte Watts · Department for International Development Dr Tamsyn Barton · Independent Commission for Aid Impact
4 Jun 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: Impact of the Coronavirus
Farah Kabir · Action Aid, Bangladesh Ghassan Abou Chaar · Médecins Sans Frontières Ndubisi Anyanwu · Mercy Corps
15 May 2020
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Humanitarian crises monitoring: impact of coronavirus
Bob Kitchen · International Rescue Committee Gwen Hines · Save the Children Marian Schilperoord · UNHCR Ms Aleema Shivji · Humanity & Inclusion UK Nick Dearden · Global Justice Now Robert Mardini · International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Rosemary Forest · Peace Direct
Recommendations & Conclusions
20 results
1 Recommendation Accepted
Fifth Report - Humanitarian crises…
We recommend that, as part of a renewed consistent approach to promoting global health, the...
We recommend that, as part of a renewed consistent approach to promoting global health, the FCDO should continue to fund existing programmes aimed at the eradication of previously identified diseases. The Government should use its integrated voice to lobby development … Read more
Government Response
The government accepts the recommendation, stating it will continue to fund existing global health programmes for previously identified diseases, including through investments in Gavi, the Global Fund, and the WHO. It views COVID-19 efforts as complementary to these goals.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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2 Recommendation Accepted
Fifth Report - Humanitarian crises…
Successive UK governments have always stated that safeguarding and action against gender-based violence, including sexual...
Successive UK governments have always stated that safeguarding and action against gender-based violence, including sexual violence, were high priorities for action. We have previously welcomed this stance and recommend that the new Department continues to make it a priority to … Read more
Government Response
The government affirms its commitment to eliminating gender-based violence, detailing existing programs, reoriented FCDO initiatives, and recent efforts like the £1.3 million Global Survivors Fund, thereby demonstrating ongoing leadership and action in this area.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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3 Recommendation Accepted
Fifth Report - Humanitarian crises…
We recommend that the Government continues to project clearly onto the international stage, the importance...
We recommend that the Government continues to project clearly onto the international stage, the importance it places on the UK’s place within the rules-based international infrastructure and the crucial foundations of human rights and the rule of law as fundamental … Read more
Government Response
The government commits to continuing its work in demonstrating UK leadership on the international stage, promoting a rules-based system, global security, human rights, and the rule of law, leveraging opportunities like the upcoming G7 Presidency.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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4 Recommendation Rejected
Fifth Report - Humanitarian crises…
We believe the FCDO should: • recognise that the eradication of the pandemic everywhere is...
We believe the FCDO should: • recognise that the eradication of the pandemic everywhere is an integral part of resolving the threat anywhere and therefore switch its financial support for Covid-19 vaccines, therapies and tests voluntarily from its ODA pot … Read more
Government Response
The government disagrees with switching COVID-19 vaccine R&D funding from ODA, stating its allocation complies with DAC rules and is crucial for developing world access. It highlights ongoing efforts to tackle indirect impacts and existing support for health and education in developing countries.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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5 Recommendation Rejected
Fifth Report - Humanitarian crises…
We conclude that, for the time being, it would not be prudent for the Government...
We conclude that, for the time being, it would not be prudent for the Government to work on the basis that funding allocated to research for vaccines, treatments or tests for Covid-19 would count as ODA, as it “contributes to … Read more
Government Response
The government rejects the recommendation not to count COVID-19 vaccine, treatment, and diagnostic (VTD) research funding as ODA, asserting its commitment to OECD DAC rules and ensuring VTDs are suitable and accessible for developing countries.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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6 Recommendation Rejected
Fifth Report - Humanitarian crises…
At a strategic level, we urge the PM and the Government to be more ambitious...
At a strategic level, we urge the PM and the Government to be more ambitious for the UK’s G7 Presidency than simply calling for better cooperation in spotting, preventing and fighting another pandemic more effectively. Rather, we recommend the Government … Read more
Government Response
The government rejects the committee's view that ODA funding should be diverted from COVID-19 R&D. It highlights existing commitments to global health, including funding for Gavi and the Global Fund, without committing to lead a new holistic global health and nutrition strategy during its G7 Presidency.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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1 Recommendation Acknowledged
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
The reduction of UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) from 0.7% to 0.5% of annual Gross...
The reduction of UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) from 0.7% to 0.5% of annual Gross National Income (GNI) from 2021 necessitates an approach which ensures that UK ODA is spent in a more strategic and effective way than ever before. … Read more
Government Response
The government explained its temporary ODA reduction and the new strategic framework for aid allocation, noting that existing engagement channels with NGOs and private suppliers are maintained, with further meetings planned. However, it did not explicitly detail how it assessed the impact of funding cuts on recipient countries or how engagement will be strengthened.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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2 Conclusion Accepted
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
We support the Foreign Secretary’s inclusion of key secondary impacts of covid-19, such as famine,...
We support the Foreign Secretary’s inclusion of key secondary impacts of covid-19, such as famine, in the new Strategic Framework for UK ODA. However, we are concerned that the framework omits other crucial areas, including an explicit commitment to poverty … Read more
Government Response
The government reiterates its commitment to the global fight against poverty as central to FCDO's mission, stating that its ODA priorities are set in pursuit of poverty reduction and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, consistent with existing legislation.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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3 Recommendation Rejected
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
To strengthen the UK’s approach to tackling the secondary impacts of covid-19 in developing countries,...
To strengthen the UK’s approach to tackling the secondary impacts of covid-19 in developing countries, the FCDO should design, apply and publish a long-term strategy relating to covid-19 by the end of the financial year. It should then revisit its … Read more
Government Response
The government explicitly rejected designing and publishing a separate long-term COVID-19 strategy, stating its efforts are integrated into the FCDO's strategic framework and Integrated Review. However, it committed to using its G7 and COP26 presidencies to foster international cooperation on a unified recovery strategy.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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4 Recommendation Accepted
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
The pandemic is having a particularly detrimental effect upon already vulnerable groups by reinforcing inequalities...
The pandemic is having a particularly detrimental effect upon already vulnerable groups by reinforcing inequalities and discrimination. To counteract this, we recommend that the FCDO take the following steps: • To undertake and publish impact assessments as quickly as possible … Read more
Government Response
The government states that its partners are already publishing rapid assessments and that FCDO has internal guidance on inclusive data and beneficiary engagement, suggesting current practices align with the recommendation's aims without committing to new specific actions or deadlines.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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5 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
We welcome the Government’s intention to reduce the number of expensive mega- contracts for the...
We welcome the Government’s intention to reduce the number of expensive mega- contracts for the delivery of UK-ODA funded projects. To ensure that NGOs are able to continue essential work with vulnerable communities, the FCDO should replenish funds used by … Read more
Government Response
The government details significant direct funding allocated to international and UK-based charities for COVID-19 response and highlights partnerships aimed at building capacity for locally led NGOs. It also provides an update on the lessons learned from the DEPP programme, but does not commit to new specific actions for increasing direct funding or incentivising partners.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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6 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
Covid-19 has affected healthcare systems in developing countries negatively.
Covid-19 has affected healthcare systems in developing countries negatively. The urgency with which countries have had to respond has diverted already scarce resources towards covid-related care at the expense of other essential healthcare. This has caused disruption to routine vaccinations … Read more
Government Response
The government states it assesses COVID-19's impact on healthcare by commissioning and synthesizing evidence and commits to publishing its 2020 global health spend. However, it explicitly states there are no immediate plans to publish a global health strategy, while noting it continues to review its approach.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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7 Recommendation Accepted
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
At a time of heightened need, it is more important than ever that healthcare is...
At a time of heightened need, it is more important than ever that healthcare is provided in a way that uses stretched resources as efficiently as possible through integrating responses to multiple health challenges. As part of a global health … Read more
Government Response
The government outlines its commitment to Universal Health Coverage and strengthening health systems to provide essential services without financial hardship, citing existing investments and market-shaping interventions. It also describes ongoing efforts to balance COVID-19 response with maintaining existing essential health services and adapting them to be COVID-secure.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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8 Recommendation Acknowledged
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
We welcome the UK’s role in extending the G20’s Debt Service Suspension Initiative to 30...
We welcome the UK’s role in extending the G20’s Debt Service Suspension Initiative to 30 June 2021, the measure to temporarily suspend debt service payments for the poorest countries. As the majority of these outstanding debts are governed by English … Read more
Government Response
The government details existing efforts regarding the G20's Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI), noting G20 agreement to examine further extensions. It explains that private creditor participation under DSSI was voluntary and refers to the Common Framework for comparable treatment from private creditors, but does not commit to extending DSSI beyond June 2021, actively persuading private lenders to join the DSSI, or considering debt cancellation options.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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9 Recommendation Deferred
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
Livelihoods in developing countries have been devastated by the pandemic.
Livelihoods in developing countries have been devastated by the pandemic. Workers in economically precarious sectors, such as agriculture, are especially vulnerable to the economic shock and instability caused by covid-19. We believe that protecting these jobs is central to enabling … Read more
Government Response
The government agreed on the importance of working closely with recipient countries and NGOs, citing current examples. However, it did not commit to quarterly reporting and stated that support for strengthening economic resilience through multi-year programmes is currently under review for the 2021/22 financial year.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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10 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
While we welcome the appointment of a Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs...
While we welcome the appointment of a Special Envoy for Famine Prevention and Humanitarian Affairs and the £119 million aid package to support food security, we ask the FCDO to update us on a quarterly basis on the performance and … Read more
Government Response
The government reports pledging an additional £180 million for food insecurity and highlights its long-standing commitment to cash transfers, detailing over £338 million spent in FY19/20. However, it defers renewing nutrition commitments pending an internal review and does not address the request for quarterly updates on food security measures.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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11 Recommendation Not Addressed
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
We are concerned by the likely increase in gender inequality following the outbreak of covid-19...
We are concerned by the likely increase in gender inequality following the outbreak of covid-19 and its potential impact upon programmes promoting gender equality. In its response to this report, the FCDO should set out how they have implemented Covid-19 … Read more
Government Response
The government acknowledges COVID-19's disproportionate impact on women and girls, citing funding for UNFPA and support for women's rights organisations, and mentions social protection efforts to mitigate increased unpaid care responsibilities. However, it does not commit to refreshing the Strategic Vision for Gender Equality, convening an external expert panel, reviewing the Delivery Board, or appointing a Special Envoy on Gender Equality, and refers to a new Programme Operating Framework being developed instead of detailing Smart Rules implementation.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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12 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
Gender-based violence has increased during the pandemic, with the risk especially acute for groups such...
Gender-based violence has increased during the pandemic, with the risk especially acute for groups such as adolescents, migrants, refugees and displaced people. At the same time, access to support services has become more difficult. Therefore, it is disappointing that a … Read more
Government Response
The government stated it is developing ambitious actions and targets on gender-based violence, to be published at the Generation Equality Forum in June. However, it implicitly rejected ringfencing funding by referencing the ODA budget reduction, and described reorienting existing programmes to support survivors without explicitly detailing new accountability measures for partners.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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13 Recommendation Accepted in Part
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
Access to sexual and reproductive health services is an essential element of healthcare, providing lifesaving...
Access to sexual and reproductive health services is an essential element of healthcare, providing lifesaving services to women and girls and empowering them to make choices about their futures. The FCDO should publish an assessment of the effectiveness of current … Read more
Government Response
The government states it regularly publishes annual reviews of UK-funded SRHR programmes on its Development Tracker website. It rejects ringfencing funding for specific contraceptive methods, arguing it could limit choice, and asserts that the pledge to end preventable deaths of mothers, newborns, and children is already integrated into its global health approach and ODA strategic framework.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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14 Recommendation Accepted
Eighth Report - Covid-19 in develo…
We welcome the FCDO’s continued commitment to prioritising girls’ education in UK ODA funding.
We welcome the FCDO’s continued commitment to prioritising girls’ education in UK ODA funding. However, we are concerned that the pandemic will push back progress in this area, with rising poverty levels forcing girls out of school and remote teaching … Read more
Government Response
The government asserts that its decisions are already evidence-informed and data-driven, and provides examples of ongoing initiatives like the Girls’ Education Challenge programme, which involves working with local NGOs and adapting teaching methods to reach marginalized girls.
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
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Government Response AI assessment · 20 of 19 classified
Accepted 7
Accepted in Part 5
Acknowledged 2
Deferred 1
Not Addressed 1
Rejected 4
Total 19 recs + 1 conclusion
Correspondence 1 letter
19 May 2020 Correspondence from the Secretary of State, relating to resilience building to Covid-19 in the Global South and correspondence with DFID suppliers
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