As funding for humanitarian preparedness becomes increasingly constrained worldwide, the Pacific Community (SPC) has welcomed the Government of France’s €1 million (US$1.16 million) contribution to the Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Programme (PHWP).
This contribution underscores France’s long-standing partnership with the Pacific and recognises that strengthened preparedness remains essential as Pacific Island countries face more frequent and severe climate-related disasters. The support will assist SPC and participating countries to sustain and consolidate critical systems at a time when predictable funding for preparedness is becoming increasingly constrained.
The funding will enable SPC to continue delivering tailored warehouse management systems, targeted capacity strengthening, personnel support and effective programme coordination through the PHWP.
As a Pacific-led initiative, the programme focuses on reinforcing national systems and building sovereign capability across participating countries, supporting their ability to manage and coordinate humanitarian supplies within the crucial first 24 to 48 hours following a disaster.
By strengthening national readiness ahead of emergencies, the PHWP supports countries to act decisively and pre-emptively when disasters strike, thus improving the timeliness, accountability and appropriateness of humanitarian response.
The programme prioritises practical systems, trained national personnel and inclusive approaches that support the safety and dignity of affected communities.
SPC Director for the Geoscience, Energy and Maritime Division, Rhonda Robinson, said the contribution was particularly significant in the current global funding environment.
“At a time when resources for preparedness are under increasing pressure worldwide, we sincerely thank the Government of France for its continued commitment to supporting disaster readiness in the Pacific. This contribution enables countries to strengthen their own systems and respond quickly and inclusively when disasters occur, helping to protect lives and livelihoods.”
Philippe Lalliot, Director of the Crisis and Support Centre of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed France’s support for the programme.
“France remains committed to working with SPC and Pacific Island Countries to strengthen disaster preparedness and response as disasters continue to regularly impact the region. Supporting the Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Program reflects our shared focus on resilience, partnership and ensuring that participating countries are able to manage their own stocks and act rapidly in the critical first hours following a disaster.”
The PHWP extends beyond physical infrastructure and equipment. It supports the development of skills, systems and governance arrangements that strengthen operational readiness over time.
This includes prepositioning essential relief supplies, strengthening the capabilities of national disaster risk management offices and humanitarian partners, embedding gender equality, disability and social inclusion principles across warehousing and logistics functions, and supporting transparent management through reporting, monitoring and coordination mechanisms.
The programme also promotes localisation and environmentally responsible practices by working with local suppliers and reducing the environmental footprint of humanitarian logistics wherever possible.
As a multi-partner initiative, the PHWP complements national and regional investments in preparedness and response, contributing to improved access to climate-resilient warehousing and more coordinated humanitarian systems across the Pacific.
