since 1998 through its Committee for Hu-
The Federal Government does not provide
man Rights and Humanitarian Aid. In 2000,
this assistance directly, but supports suitable
the German Institute for Human Rights, a
projects conducted by the UN’s humanitarian
state-funded but independent body, was es-
organisations, the Red Cross and Red Crescent
tablished in Berlin. As a national human
Movement, and German non-government or-
rights institution as defined in the UN’s Paris
ganisations. In 2014 alone, the Federal Foreign
Principles, it is intended to help the promo-
Office allocated in excess of 437 million euros
tion and protection of human rights by Ger-
for humanitarian measures.
many at home and abroad.
The protection of human rights is also an
Humanitarian aid for people
important field of activity for cyber foreign
in acute need
policy. Issues relating to the protection of
data and privacy rights need urgent answers.
Through its humanitarian aid worldwide
In 2013 and 2014, the UN Gener al Assembly
the Federal Government helps people in acute
passed resolutions on the right to privacy in
need as a result of natural disasters, armed
the digital age. They were on the back of a
conflicts, or other crises and conflicts – or
German-Brazilian initiative. Germany is of
where there is a risk of this becoming the
the opinion that human rights online are
case. It is not about the causes of their plight.
just as valid as offline. In 2015, the UN Hu-
Humanitarian aid is an expression of ethical
man Rights Council adopted a resolution
responsibility and solidarity with people in
that for the first time envisages the appoint-
need. It is geared to the requirements of the
ment of an independent special reporter for
needy and is based on the humanitarian
the right to privacy. He will report on viola-
principles of humanity, neutrality, impar-
tions annually and follow the international
tiality, and independence.
debate.
Budget for humanitarian assistance
worldwide in 2013
Purpose of donations in Germany in 2014
5.7 %
16.4
Animal protection
billion USD
2.9 %
Culture
79 %
Humanitarian aid
5.6
Sources: Statista
billion USD
Humanitarian
assistance from
private donations
Humanitarian
assistance by
governments
2.7 %
Environmental protection
2.4 %
Sport
7.4 %
Other/no info available