Why is the DEC not responding to the disaster in China?
The DEC has three criteria that need to be met before we launch an appeal: overwhelming un-met needs; ability of our members agencies to respond in a timely and effective way, and evidence of concern by the British public.
In this instance the second criteria has not been met. Apart from the Red Cross movement the DEC member charities have a modest humanitarian capacity in China and it would not be appropriate to channel substantial funds via them. It is part of the effectiveness of the DEC appeals that donors know who is going to spend the money we raise.
It is because of this that we have encouraged potential donors to give to the British Red Cross directly, a valued member of the DEC. Anyone wishing to support the British Red Cross Chinese earthquake appeal can donate on www.redcross.org.uk