National Statement, delivered by Ambassador Nicola Clase, Permanent Representative of Sweden to the UN, at the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) High-level Pledging Event, 9 December, 2025
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Under-Secretary-General, Excellencies, dear colleagues,
As we gather to commemorate CERF’s impressive twenty-year legacy, we acknowledge two decades of solidarity and principled humanitarian action. The CERF has been a lifeline for millions of people – delivering rapid, flexible funding when and where it was needed the most.
However, as we honor this milestone, we are closing a year marked by extraordinary challenges. Humanitarian workers continue to put their lives on the line while operating under extremely dangerous conditions.
Humanitarian needs have reached record levels due to conflicts, protracted crises and climate shocks. Yet, resources to meet the needs remain critically scarce, and the widening gap has pushed the system to a pivotal moment of reform.
The humanitarian system is in the midst of a critical reform process to remain fit-for-purpose and overcome the multifaceted challenges that lie ahead. We welcome the Humanitarian Reset under the leadership of ERC Tom Fletcher, while acknowledging the tough choices and field-level prioritization it requires.
In this context, pooled funds are indispensable tools for driving localization, enhance efficiency, and reach those most vulnerable.
We commend the impressive capacity and speed of the CERF throughout this year. We take note of valuable allocations to respond to conflict and displacement in Sudan and swift investments in anticipatory action in the Caribbean region.
Sweden remains a committed and long-term partner to the CERF – the second-largest donor since the establishment of the fund.
In 2025, Sweden contributed 21 million US dollars to the CERF.
As part of our domestic budgetary process, the allocation for 2026 is still pending and subject to a government decision later this month.
Lastly, Sweden reaffirms its commitment to the CERF, and the principled, effective humanitarian response it enables. We welcome the generous pledges announced today and those to come in the year ahead. Sweden will remain a proud supporter of the CERF, and we call on others follow suit. Every contribution makes a difference in saving lives.
Thank you.
