The world faces its most severe humanitarian crisis since World War II, with just over 239 million people requiring urgent humanitarian assistance and protection as 2026 begins, according to the Global Humanitarian Overview 2026.
The crisis is characterized by "entrenched conflicts that are more violent against civilians and lasting longer than at any time since World War Two, and a climate crisis that is escalating unabated," the report states. From Haiti to Myanmar, Ukraine to Sudan, widespread violence, hunger, displacement, and disease are devastating civilian populations [Global Humanitarian Overview 2026].
Two Primary Drivers
Humanitarian organizations identify two main drivers behind the escalating crisis, both described as "man-made and could be reversed with concerted and collective action." Conflict remains the primary cause of death, displacement, and hunger globally, while climate change continues to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities [Global Humanitarian Overview 2026].
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) warns of four converging trends pushing the world toward deeper instability, noting a "stark paradox: as needs rise rapidly, the resources available for principled humanitarian action are under growing strain." ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric emphasized that "war without limits equals suffering without end" [ICRC].
Funding Crisis Compounds Suffering
Global aid cuts in 2025 have significantly impacted humanitarian response capabilities, leaving millions without essential assistance. The International Rescue Committee's 2026 Emergency Watchlist identifies 20 countries at risk of worsening humanitarian crises, with the top 10 countries accounting for 89% of global humanitarian need despite representing just 12% of the world's population [IRC].
Women and girls face particular vulnerabilities, with overcrowded shelters increasing risks of violence, trafficking, and early marriage as funding to address their specific needs declines. Current projections suggest more than 351 million women and girls could remain in extreme poverty by decade's end if present trends continue [Global Humanitarian Overview 2026].
Widespread Poverty and Child Vulnerability
Beyond immediate crisis zones, over 1.1 billion people across 109 countries face acute multi-dimensional poverty. More than 400 million children worldwide live in poverty, lacking access to at least two daily necessities such as nutrition and sanitation [Global Humanitarian Overview 2026].
The crisis extends beyond traditional humanitarian emergencies, affecting populations in countries without formal humanitarian appeals but experiencing various forms of fragility and economic challenges.
International Response Under Strain
Historically, the United States has been the largest contributor to humanitarian aid through private donations, followed by Germany and the United Kingdom, with the European Union ranking fourth in contributions [Iberdrola]. However, current funding shortfalls indicate growing strain on traditional donor capacity.
Humanitarian access remains critically restricted in conflict zones such as Gaza and Al-Fashir, preventing organizations from reaching civilians in need. The ICRC notes that "neutral, impartial humanitarian action is being politicized, manipulated or obstructed" across multiple contexts [ICRC].
Sudan Exemplifies Scale of Crisis
Sudan represents the world's largest humanitarian crisis, with 11.5 million people displaced as the conflict between government forces and paramilitary groups approaches its third year. Famine conditions continue spreading, with over four million people fleeing to neighboring countries [The New Humanitarian].
The crisis underscores the urgent need for increased international cooperation and funding to address what humanitarian organizations describe as unprecedented global suffering requiring immediate action.