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ECHO finances emergency humanitarian operations lasting six months.
Operations may, however, be extended, depending on requirements on the ground and the development of the situation. The financing is not for programmes but for specific operations. The humanitarian aid comprises assistance, relief and protection operations on a non-discriminatory basis to help people in third countries. The operations are aimed at saving and preserving life during emergencies and their immediate aftermath and natural disasters that have entailed major loss of life, physical, psychological or social suffering, or material damage. The aim is also to provide the necessary assistance and relief to people affected by longer-lasting crises arising, in particular, from outbreaks of fighting or wars, especially where their own governments prove unable to help or there is a vacuum of power.