EU takes the lead in humanitarian aid

The European Union (EU) continues to assert its position as one of the world’s leading providers of humanitarian aid, with plans to allocate 1.87 billion EUR towards relief efforts in 2025.

People wait to receive food aid in Rafah City, southern Gaza Strip on March 30, 2024.

This decision comes amid an unprecedented global humanitarian crisis, as armed conflicts, climate change, and social inequality plunge hundreds of millions of people into hardship. It is estimated that more than 300 million people worldwide will require humanitarian assistance this year.

The prevention of humanitarian crises and provision of emergency aid remain urgent global priorities. Ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine have claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced millions.

Meanwhile, extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and storms are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, threatening food security and driving populations into poverty.

The growing wealth gap has further exacerbated the burden on the most vulnerable, leaving them to bear the brunt of crises.

The international community is consistently called upon to enhance financial and humanitarian support for struggling nations and individuals forced into dire circumstances as the spectre of famine looms over many countries and regions.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has appealed for over 47 billion USD to provide emergency assistance to 305 million people worldwide this year. However, securing sufficient funding remains a major challenge.

To date, only 43% of the 50 billion USD sought for humanitarian aid in 2024 has been met. According to OCHA, this amount can only assist 189.5 million of the most vulnerable people, leaving 115 million without access to UN relief services.

Reaffirming its pivotal role in addressing global humanitarian crises and its strong commitment to protecting human rights and dignity in the most challenging circumstances, the EU continues to lead large-scale humanitarian relief efforts across various regions.

According to a spokesperson for the European Commission (EC), the funds allocated for 2025 will focus on areas that are severely affected by crises, particularly Gaza, Syria, and Ukraine.

Demonstrating consistency in its humanitarian policy, the EU has not only announced its aid budget for 2025 but also reserved 120 million EUR for the ongoing emergency in Gaza.

With a total of over 450 million EUR allocated over the past two years, the EU has underscored its long-term commitment to supporting the Palestinian people as, despite some positive signs following a recent ceasefire agreement, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical.

The aid package includes essential items to meet the urgent needs of Gaza’s population. Additionally, protection measures will be implemented to ensure the safety and security of vulnerable groups.

The EC has also unveiled a 235 million EUR aid package for Syria and neighbouring countries, with funding directed towards basic needs such as shelter, food, clean water, sanitation, healthcare, education, and other emergency support.

Standing with those affected by the crisis in Lebanon, the EU has launched a humanitarian air bridge to deliver relief supplies to the Middle Eastern nation.

In light of the increasing frequency and severity of climate change-related disasters, strengthening international cooperation for effective responses is more urgent than ever. The EU has pledged to work closely with UN agencies and humanitarian organisations to ensure that aid reaches those in need in a swift and efficient manner.

As 2025 presents formidable challenges, with ongoing conflict hotspots and climate change threatening livelihoods, the EU’s leadership in fulfilling its commitments serves as a driving force for humanitarian efforts, thus helping to alleviate global crises.

NDO