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Multidonor Emergency Fund launched by UNESCO
The Director General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, launched on November 11, an Multidonor Emergency Fund to cover a shortfall of $ 65 million caused by the announcement that the United States will retain the funds owed to the Organization. Bokova made the announcement at the close of the General Conference.
United States withdrew its funding after the admission of Palestine to UNESCO, 31 October due to a U.S. law dating from 1990. This creates an immediate deficit of $ 65 million until the end of 2011 and a deficit of 22% in the approved budget for 2012-2013, amounting to 653 million dollars. Israel also withdrew its contribution of $ 1.5 million (0.3% of UNESCO's budget) for 2012-2013.
The U.S. announcement sparked a wave of support to UNESCO unprecedented by individuals, associations and private companies all over the world. "This is a test of the good that UNESCO does," said the Director General. "I see these expressions of support as a clear recognition of good work done by UNESCO in the world. Are clear indicators of success. "
The Fund shall be open to multiple donors, from Member States to public institutions, foundations and individuals. Gabon's government immediately announced a donation of two million dollars.
For furhter information visit: http://www.unesco.org/
The General Conference also took the following decisions:
Southern Sudan and Palestine were admitted as States and Curacao and St. Martin as Associate Members. This brings the total number to 195 Member States and eight Associate Members.
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