Politicians and businesses are called to humanitarian action in Istanbul

They are all there. In Istanbul at the World Humanitarian Summit. Top-level politicians, key influencers from non-governmental organisations (NGO’s), and representatives from international business are present. The key topic is to find and initiate concrete actions and commitments that can better prepare the international community to respond to humanitarian crises as for instance the current refugee crisis.

“We are in the middle of an enormous refugee catastrophe. We need to find new ways of helping. In close cooperation with the private sector, experts and the humanitarian sector, we can develop de necessary solutions to refugees, internally displaced and local societies in developing countries,” says Danish Foreign Minister, Kristian Jensen.

The summit is the first of its kind and is initiated by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon. In addition to discussing the current humanitarian issues, goals of the summit include creating a roadmap on how to build capabilities in developing countries, for instance making them capable of running and maintaining stable supply networks delivering basic necessities such as water. Here, water technology companies, such as Grundfos, can make a difference, and this is exactly why the company is also present in Istanbul.

“We are here to share our view on the issues the world is facing, and offer our help. Water is an invaluable resource in building better societies all over the world, and our innovative water technology can make a true difference in all parts of the world,” says Kim Nøhr Skibsted, Group VP, Group Communications, Public Affairs & Engagement at Grundfos.

Among other things, the company highlights its green solutions, which include submersible pumps for water intake, designed to be able to run on solar and wind power, making them capable of operating in off-grid areas everywhere around the world.

Solar powered, stable solutions, which can bring water to remote areas is among the high-tech equipment that Grundfos has brought to a new cooperation with the Danish Refugee Council. Here the company and the humanitarian organisation can combine their specific expertise in order to build better foundations for life in the refugee communities.

“It is time to enhance collaboration across sectors. As partners we will need to understand and appreciate the different contributions that each sector can bring to the table. This is why I am excited about the new partnership with Grundfos setting out to jointly rethink meaningful and sustainable solutions”, says Andreas Kamm, Secretary General, Danish Refugee Council.