The United Nations has sounded the alarm over a growing global humanitarian crisis. With multiple ongoing conflicts, climate change, and the erosion of international humanitarian law, around 305 million people will need life-saving assistance in 2025. The UN’s top aid official, Tom Fletcher, has highlighted the urgent need for funding. The official also called for international cooperation to address this escalating situation.
“The world is on fire,” warned Tom Fletcher, the UN’s Emergency Relief Coordinator. He described the situation as a polycrisis, where multiple, overlapping crises are placing an unbearable strain on the world’s most vulnerable populations. The impact of ongoing conflicts and longer, more intense crises is felt most by those who can least afford it.
Fletcher’s call for $47.4 billion in aid aims to provide relief to millions across more than 30 countries and nine refugee-hosting regions. This is a direct appeal to the global community to act now and prevent further suffering.
FUNDING SHORTFALLS: A BARRIER TO HUMANITARIAN AID
Despite the overwhelming need, funding remains a significant obstacle. Of the 305 million people requiring assistance, only 190 million will be reached due to a shortage of resources. This gap is especially clear in regions like the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Years of violence and instability have taken a toll on its people.
Fletcher emphasized that humanitarian teams on the ground are ready and willing to deliver aid. Yet, they are hindered by a lack of financial and political support. “We need these resources,” Fletcher urged. He called for the global community to challenge the indifference contributing to these crises. He also emphasized ending the impunity that perpetuates them.
A MISSION TO BUILD GLOBAL SOLIDARITY
As the newly appointed UN aid chief, Fletcher has pledged to visit world capitals. He is working to secure new partnerships and solidarity for the world’s most vulnerable. His background as a UK ambassador in conflict zones like Kenya, Lebanon, and Northern Ireland has shaped his diplomatic approach. He focuses on building relationships. He ensures humanitarian aid reaches those who need it most.
“I’ve got to find ways to reframe this argument in a way that resonates with the public,” Fletcher said. His mission is clear: to keep aid flowing and to challenge the geopolitical forces that often hinder effective assistance.
THE IMPACT OF ELECTION POLITICS ON HUMANITARIAN AID
In a year of significant elections around the world, Fletcher noted potential challenges for UN operations. He recognized that changing political landscapes cause these issues. Some newly elected governments question the role of the United Nations, but Fletcher remains optimistic. He believes there is compassion in these governments. He stresses that the UN can still make a compelling case for its mission.
HUMANITARIAN CRISIS; LONG-TERM CONFLICTS
The nature of modern conflicts is another factor exacerbating the crisis. The average length of contemporary conflicts has reached a staggering 10 years, with no clear end in sight. Fletcher highlighted the wars in Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine. These are prime examples of prolonged, ferocious conflicts. They have a devastating impact on civilians.
What’s more alarming is the disregard for international humanitarian law in these conflicts. Fletcher lamented the growing failure to respect these laws, which are meant to protect both civilians and aid workers. “We’ve lost our anchor,” he said. He pointed to the failure of combatants to follow established norms. These norms are designed to safeguard human life.
CLIMATE CHANGE: A NEW CATALYST FOR HUMANITARIAN CRISIS
The effects of climate change are compounding the challenges of conflict. Fletcher noted that the climate crisis is severely impacting the most vulnerable people. This is especially true in areas already devastated by war and poverty. He warned that climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate driver of humanitarian need.
As the crisis intensifies, millions of people have been displaced by both climate change and conflict. Current estimates show that 123 million people worldwide are now forcibly displaced, with a disturbing rise in violations against children. In Sudan, Fletcher observed firsthand the impact of both conflict and climate-induced displacement on families and children.
OBSTACLES TO DELIVERING AID: A STRUGGLE ON THE FRONTLINES
One of the biggest challenges facing humanitarian teams is gaining access to people in need. Whether navigating checkpoints in Sudan or negotiating access through war-torn regions, delivering aid is a constant battle. Fletcher emphasized the importance of overcoming these obstacles to ensure that aid reaches those who are suffering the most.
“Arguing truck by truck for humanitarian delivery is our mission,” he said. He underscored the relentless effort required to get lifesaving support to those who need it most.
GLOBAL HUMANITARIAN OVERVIEW 2025: A CALL FOR ACTION
At the launch of the Global Humanitarian Overview 2025, Fletcher called for renewed respect for international humanitarian law. He noted that aid workers continue to face increasing danger, with a record number of aid workers killed this year. The international community must not only address the physical threats to aid teams but also restore the integrity of humanitarian law to protect civilians and workers alike.