Multiple endless conflicts, climate change, and a blatant disregard for international humanitarian law will result in 305 million people needing life-saving assistance next year, warned Tom Fletcher, director of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
In an appeal for $47.4 billion, OCHA aims to provide assistance in more than 30 countries and nine regions hosting refugees.
Impossible Decisions and Lack of Funding
OCHA’s new humanitarian assessment is grim: out of the 305 million people in need, only 190 million will be reached. The lack of funding is one of the main reasons in countries that have endured decades of violence and instability, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Fletcher emphasizes the need for more resources and actions from the international community to challenge this era of impunity and indifference.
A Pioneering Role in Humanitarian Aid
As the new head of UN aid, Fletcher committed to seeking new partnerships and solidarity for the world’s most vulnerable people. Drawing on his previous experience in conflicts and peacebuilding, he underscored the need to ensure that aid continues to flow to where it is most needed.
Geopolitical Changes and Current Challenges
Fletcher highlighted that the international community is facing a series of national and presidential elections that could question the actions of the United Nations. However, he expressed confidence in the possibility of presenting humanitarian arguments to these new governments, appealing to their compassion.
Additionally, Fletcher stressed how serious the climate crisis is for already vulnerable people. Conflicts and climate change are combining their effects, further complicating humanitarian work in regions affected by poverty and inequality.
Priorities and Access to Aid
Ensuring access to aid remains a key issue. Fletcher insisted on the need for a constant effort to overcome obstacles and deliver basic humanitarian aid, checkpoint by checkpoint. The launch of the World Humanitarian Overview 2025 will also be an opportunity to promote greater respect and understanding of international humanitarian law.
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