Brussels: The European Commission has announced a significant allocation of EUR 1.9 billion for humanitarian aid in 2026, aiming to address the needs of approximately 239 million people globally who require assistance. This announcement comes as other major donors are reducing their funding levels.
According to Kuwait News Agency, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib emphasized that this commitment is being made in response to the unprecedented pressure on the global humanitarian system. The aid from the European Union is primarily focused on saving lives in the most severely affected areas, providing emergency food, shelter, essential healthcare, and ensuring the protection of vulnerable groups. Additionally, the funding will support children's education in crisis zones.
The initial allocation includes EUR 557 million designated for regions such as West and Central Africa, the Sahel, the Lake Chad basin, north-west Nigeria, Central Africa, Southern Africa, the Great Lakes region, and the Greater Horn of Africa. Furthermore, EUR 448 million is earmarked for the Middle East, with specific attention to the Gaza Strip following a fragile ceasefire, as well as Iraq, Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon.
Eastern Europe will receive EUR 145 million to address humanitarian needs in Ukraine amid the ongoing Russian invasion, now entering its fourth year, along with an additional EUR eight million for Moldova's humanitarian projects. In South Asia, EUR 126 million is allocated for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran. Meanwhile, Central and South America and the Caribbean are set to receive EUR 95 million to tackle complex humanitarian crises exacerbated by conflicts, violence, political instability, inequalities, and environmental challenges.
The European Union has also committed EUR 73 million to Southeast Asia and the Pacific, particularly in response to the Myanmar crisis and its impacts on Bangladesh. North Africa will receive EUR 14.6 million to manage ongoing political, economic, and social challenges.
In a related effort, Commissioner Lahbib highlighted the need for innovative approaches to bridge the gap between record-high humanitarian needs and available resources. She plans to convene with business leaders and investors in Davos to explore private sector contributions through innovative solutions and new financing models to bolster humanitarian responses.