Executive Summary
This report by the ICRC examines the evolving humanitarian landscape in conflict settings, highlighting the catastrophic impact of unbridled conflict, IHL violations, and dwindling resources on affected communities. It draws on research from the DRC, South Sudan, and Ukraine, emphasizing the perspectives of local communities and humanitarian actors. The report calls for states and humanitarian organizations to intensify efforts and adapt responses to meet the urgent needs of people enduring conflict.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense and geopolitical analysts as it details the humanitarian consequences of ongoing conflicts and geopolitical shifts, providing insights into the stability and resilience of conflict-affected regions and the challenges faced by international aid efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing conflicts, violations of international humanitarian law, and reduced humanitarian response capacity are severely impacting millions in conflict zones.
Source evidence · PDF page 8
Conflicts without end, egregious violations of international humanitarian law (IHL) and a diminished humanitarian response are having a catastrophic impact on millions of people affected by armed conflict and violence.
- Humanitarian organizations, particularly National Societies, face significant funding cuts and declining donor interest, leading to reduced presence and service delivery.
Source evidence · PDF page 23
At the same time, NS identify a withdrawal or significant reduction in presence of other humanitarian actors following funding cuts in 2025, but in some cases reflecting a longer-term decline in donor interest in protracted conflict settings.
- The humanitarian sector is forced to prioritize, making difficult choices between life-saving actions and long-term resilience, often leading to a 'back to basics' approach that may not align with community needs.
Source evidence · PDF page 27
If there is one word that captures the shifts prompted by funding cuts, it is “prioritization”. Having fewer resources inevitably means making tough choices – what to continue doing and what to suspend or abandon, which geographic areas to focus on and from which to exit, who to include and who to exclude.
Strategic Relevance
The report underscores the destabilizing effects of protracted conflicts and the strain on humanitarian systems, which can exacerbate grievances and prolong instability. Understanding these challenges is vital for assessing regional security, potential for state failure, and the effectiveness of international interventions.