The world is facing unprecedented humanitarian challenges. Over 305 million people need urgent assistance, and 82% of them live in just 20 countries. These nations, identified by the International Rescue Committee’s (IRC) Emergency Watchlist 2025, represent the most vulnerable hotspots for escalating crises.
Sudan tops the list as the largest humanitarian crisis ever recorded, with 10% of the global population in need residing within its borders. Other countries, including Myanmar, South Sudan, Syria, and the occupied Palestinian territory, round out the top five.
The IRC’s findings, encapsulated in the theme “A World Out of Balance,” reveal four critical imbalances driving these crises. These include rising conflict, attacks on civilians, climate impacts, and growing inequality.
TOP 20 WATCHLIST COUNTRIES
The Emergency Watchlist highlights the disproportionate burden borne by just 11% of the global population. These 20 countries house:
- 77% of the world’s displaced population
- Over 30% of the world’s extreme poor
THE TOP FIVE CRISES
- Sudan: Home to 10% of global humanitarian needs, with millions displaced by escalating violence.
- Occupied Palestinian Territory: Worsening conflict and restricted access to aid exacerbate civilian suffering.
- Myanmar: Military coups and ethnic tensions leave millions in dire conditions.
- Syria: Re-emerging as a top concern with persistent violence and poverty.
- South Sudan: Chronic instability drives widespread displacement and hunger.
FOUR KEY IMBALANCES DRIVING CRISIS
1. Rising Conflict, Declining Diplomacy
The number of conflicts worldwide has hit a record high, with 59 active wars in 2023 — the highest since World War II. Diplomacy struggles to keep pace.
- Attacks on civilians have surged by 66% over the past decade.
- 74% of these attacks occur in Watchlist countries, with civilians and infrastructure targeted as a strategy of war.
2. Climate Crisis Worsening Displacement
Countries on the Watchlist contribute less than 4% of global CO2 emissions. Yet, they bear the brunt of climate-related disasters.
- One-third of all people displaced by natural hazards over the past five years lived in these nations.
- Vulnerable communities face compounding crises, including droughts, floods, and food insecurity.
3. Economic Inequality and Poverty
Extreme poverty has declined globally but worsened in Watchlist countries.
- Poverty levels in these nations are 85% higher than in the mid-2000s.
- Economic inequality exacerbates conflict and restricts access to basic resources.
4. Civilians Pay the Price
From direct attacks to restricted aid, civilians face the heaviest burden.
- Over 305 million people worldwide need humanitarian aid.
- More than 77% of displaced individuals come from Watchlist nations.
A CALL TO ACTION: SIX STEPS FOR CHANGE
The IRC proposes a six-point agenda to address these growing challenges and foster global stability.
- Adopt cost-effective measures to ensure aid reaches those who need it most.
- Support economic stability and promote shared prosperity to address root causes of crisis.
- Reform the U.N. Security Council to enhance representation and suspend veto powers during mass atrocities.
- Ensure aid organizations can operate safely and deliver essential resources.
- Fund initiatives to help vulnerable communities adapt to climate shocks and build sustainable futures.
- Provide safe migration routes and strengthen refugee protection measures.
WHY IT MATTERS
David Miliband, IRC President and CEO, emphasizes the stakes:
“The world is fundamentally out of balance. This isn’t just a humanitarian issue; it’s a strategic imperative. Instability doesn’t stay confined to one region. Problems in Sudan or Syria have ripple effects globally.”
Miliband calls for bold action, stating that “business as usual will not reverse these trends.” He underscores the moral and strategic importance of using global resources effectively to support the world’s most vulnerable populations.