Why is the IFRC asking for less humanitarian funding?

The IFRC is requesting less funding because global aid budgets are shrinking, forcing them to scale back their appeals despite rising needs.

What challenges are humanitarian groups like the Red Cross facing?

Humanitarian groups face challenges from reduced funding by major donors, which impacts their ability to operate and assist people in crisis.

Is the safety of humanitarian workers a concern for the IFRC?

Yes, protecting humanitarian workers is a key priority for the IFRC due to the increasing risks and fatalities they have experienced.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Humanitarian Aid Faces Cuts Amid Rising Global Needs

Humanitarian Aid Faces Cuts Amid Rising Global Needs

12 Dec

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Summary

IFRC seeks 3.4 billion Swiss francs, a reduction of 400 million francs.
Global aid funding has shrunk, impacting operations of major aid groups.
Protecting aid workers is a key priority due to increasing risks.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) announced it is seeking 3.4 billion Swiss francs in donations for the upcoming year, a decrease of 400 million Swiss francs from the previous year's appeal. This significant reduction in requested funding occurs amidst a backdrop of escalating global humanitarian needs, fueled by ongoing conflicts and the intensifying impacts of climate change.

This financial shortfall reflects a broader trend of declining aid budgets from major Western donors, compelling various aid organizations and UN agencies to curtail their operations. The IFRC, operating as the world's largest humanitarian network, is emphasizing locally led responses to bring expertise closer to affected communities. Their network comprises 191 National Societies and millions of volunteers.

Protecting humanitarian personnel remains a paramount concern for the IFRC, given that 57 staff and volunteers were tragically killed in the past two years. The organization has also recently ceased its support for a migrant rescue ship in the Mediterranean due to funding constraints, highlighting the severe impact of these financial limitations on critical aid delivery.