ObjectivesFund scope
Stakeholders responding to emerging needs in the Islamic Republic of Iran have zeroed in on three issues that require immediate attention: the need to procure life-saving pharmaceuticals for children with cancer, improving the resilience of vulnerable communities (targeting women and girls) in disaster-prone areas, and strengthening the national response when providing inclusive drug prevention and treatment services for children and youth.
Inclusive disaster-risk reduction is at the top of the agenda as Iran is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world with earthquakes and landslides eclipsed by climate and weather-related hazards. Disaster risks are exacerbated by social fracturing (caused by rural to urban migration and informal settlements), economic stagnation (due to poverty or insufficient insurance), environmental gaps (unsustainable natural resource management), and infrastructure challenges (poor construction standards and building codes).
Cancer care for children is at the forefront given that national cancer rates in children are higher than other parts of the world and access to pharmaceuticals critical for treatment continues is hampered by sanctions. Because of this the country's 35 government hospitals in 27 cities struggle to provide medical services for the 3,500 children diagnosed with cancer each year, and uncertainty about humanitarian exemptions has caused medical stock-outs, pharmaceutical shortages, and a large increase in the cost of drugs/treatment that can help children with cancer survive the disease.
Although no official studies have been carried out, drug and substance addiction among youth is a growing challenge in the Islamic Republic of Iran. The country has one of the world’s highest rates of opiate use, along with use of a significant prevalence of amphetamine-type stimulants (methamphetamines) and cannabis. Estimates put the number of Iranians who abuse opioids at 2,800,000—with 9% being children and youth. Given the increase in young users, families and communities are desperate for effective prevention, treatment, and care measures that will protect at-risk children.
Strategic approach and theory of change
The Emerging Needs Joint Programme in Iran addresses economic and social challenges across the forementioned three areas. Planned action calls for a diverse and committed group of partners to broaden their networks, collect and analyze data, share information across disciplines, work with local and national governments on policy reform, raise awareness about issues, earmark funds to procure resources, and empower community members by improving access to various social and financial services.
In terms of improving treatment/medical resource supply chains for children with cancer the aim is to procure and provide access to life-saving pharmaceuticals. This includes improving the delivery of public health services that are currently affected by political and economic developments. Launching comprehensive services for youth addicted to illegal substances requires the development of a national strategic plan for drug prevention and treatment aimed at children and adolescents. Driven by evidence-based theories and models this plan, once in place, will be scaled through capacity development for government and NGOs, along with enhanced knowledge management, improved monitoring and evaluation, and advocacy and communication interventions.
To mainstream women’s empowerment and the needs of vulnerable populations in disaster preparedness responses, pre-existing social and economic liabilities must be addressed. This arm of the joint programme takes an integrated approach when focusing on promoting economic empowerment and disaster preparedness by promoting policy-dialogue and inclusive programmatic interventions (such as life and vocational skill training, value chain strengthening, and access to markets and financial services)
> $55M 
$55M - $25M
$25M - $5M
< $5M
