Brussels: The European Commission has pledged over pound 2.3 billion for humanitarian aid in 2025, as announced at the conclusion of the European Humanitarian Forum in Brussels. This financial commitment aims to address urgent global humanitarian crises.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the EU's allocation will support those impacted by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the deteriorating situation in the Middle East, especially in Gaza, and the escalating crisis in Sudan. The forum took place against a backdrop of rising global humanitarian needs stemming from ongoing conflicts, climate-related disasters, and food insecurity, with over 305 million people worldwide requiring urgent assistance.
The EU and its member states reiterated their commitment to enhancing humanitarian diplomacy, upholding international humanitarian law, and fostering an integrated response to global fragility. Discussions at the forum highlighted the necessity for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza and emphasized the urgency of delivering life-saving aid and restoring essential services like electricity for water desalination.
The humanitarian crisis in Sudan was also a focal point, with calls for a coordinated response to the world's largest displacement emergency. The EU reaffirmed its support for Ukraine, underscoring the need for sustained international humanitarian engagement regarding the war's impact.
The forum included participants from EU member states, international partners, civil society organizations, and local entities. Discussions centered on maintaining humanitarian principles, ensuring access to affected populations, and improving the effectiveness and sustainability of responses. There was also a focus on local leadership in fragile contexts, strengthening protection efforts, and linking relief with long-term recovery.
The forum endorsed United Nations-led reform initiatives like the "Humanitarian Reset" and "UN80" to maintain an effective and inclusive global humanitarian system. The EU concluded the forum by announcing plans for an integrated approach by 2026 that combines humanitarian aid, development, and peacebuilding to support vulnerable communities and enhance their resilience.