Press Release

Humanitarian Efforts Intensify as Mongolia Grapples with Dzud

22 February 2024

A herder facing the brunt of dzud — Caption: Photo © National Emergency Management Agency of Mongolia

Mongolia faces a dire situation called dzud – persisting harsh winter conditions that threaten the livelihoods of herder communities nationwide. Around 90 percent of Mongolia’s territory is at high or moderate dzud risk, with temperatures plummeting below -40°C and icy conditions hindering livestock access to pastures. As of 21 February, the State Emergency Commission reported that livestock mortality had reached 1.5 million.

Mongolian authorities requested the Humanitarian Country Team, consisting of UN agencies, and international and national humanitarian organizations in the country, to support the country’s efforts in better preparedness, anticipatory actions and response to address the forthcoming crisis.

Led by Tapan Mishra, UN Resident Coordinator, the HCT has intensified its coordinated efforts to provide vital support to affected herders, in close collaboration with the State Emergency Commission and other government agencies.

The Government’s request underscored the urgent needs of herder households for essential necessities such as food, medical supplies, firewood, coal, and cash assistance.

Tapan and DPM meeting dzud affected herders — Caption: In April 2023, Deputy Prime Minister S. Amarsaikhan and UN Resident Coordinator Tapan Mishra visited herders who were severely affected by dzud in Arkhangai aimag and listened to the plight.

Photo: © RCO Mongolia

Responding to the call, the HCT released the Dzud Early Action and Response Plan for 2023/2024 which identifies over 150,000 people in dire need of support, with 33,000 individuals classified as the most vulnerable. The HCT's assistance includes life-saving aid in the form of cash assistance, medical supplies, dignity and hygiene kits, hay and fodder, fuel, and psychological support.

“I am particularly concerned that of these, around 33,400 are women, men, girls, and boys who need urgent humanitarian support and ensure their continuity of access to critical services,” said Tapan Mishra.

Despite significant efforts, the road ahead remains challenging, necessitating continued commitment and cooperation from all stakeholders. With USD 1.8 million already raised to assist herder households, further support is urgently needed. To mobilize the necessary resources, the HCT, through the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), is appealing to the international community for additional assistance.

Tractor clearing the snow-covered roads — Caption: Thanks to UNICEF's provision of fuel, some herders are clearing the snow-covered roads to clear the path for both animals and humans.

Photo: © UNICEF Mongolia

Tapan Mishra emphasizes the importance of international solidarity and the mobilization of resources to prevent further deterioration of humanitarian needs in Mongolia. Urging generous support for the people of Mongolia, Mishra stresses the critical role of the humanitarian community in addressing the immediate needs and building a more resilient future for the country's rural communities.

In addition to immediate relief efforts, the HCT is prioritizing long-term resilience building by fostering collaboration among the government and international organizations to strengthen humanitarian and development efforts to further mitigate the impact of future crises.

Despite early preparedness actions taken by both herders and the government, solidarity and support from the international community are essential to mitigate risks and ensure the welfare and resilience of Mongolia's population.

Download the Dzud Early Action and Response Plan for 2023/2024

English