Articles

The world is facing a relentless series of crises, ranging from devastating natural disasters and protracted conflicts to ongoing public health emergencies. While immediate physical needs such as food, water, and shelter dominate the response, there is a growing recognition that something equally vital is often overlooked: mental health.

The United Nations humanitarian chief has warned that millions of people across the world will die because of a critical crisis in global humanitarian funding. The worsening crisis has been triggered by brutal funding cuts to humanitarian aid by the new United States administration, which took office at the end of January 2025 and has eliminated most American humanitarian funding and is dismantling the world's largest government aid agency.

The world is facing an existential threat - the climate crisis. The effects of climate change are already evident and have far-reaching consequences for our environment, ecosystems, societies, and people. But the climate crisis goes beyond mere environmental protection. It is closely linked to the increase and intensification of humanitarian crises affecting many millions of people worldwide and posing immense challenges to the world.

The world is currently witnessing an unprecedented number of humanitarian crises, with 362 million of people around the globe in dire need of immediate assistance. From conflict and displacement to natural disasters and epidemics, the need for humanitarian aid has never been greater. Everyone possesses the power to make a difference in the lives of those affected by these crises.

Humanitarian aid and human rights are two concepts that are closely related, yet distinct in their approach to addressing issues of global concern. Both seek to promote the well-being of individuals and communities, but they do so through different means and with different objectives in mind. At their core, humanitarian action and human rights share a common goal of promoting human dignity and alleviating human suffering. At the center of both ideas are humans and the concept of humanity.

Globally, the scale of hunger remains alarmingly high. Up to 50 million people in 45 countries are on the brink of famine. Although more than enough food is produced worldwide to feed the world's population, 10 percent of the world's people still go hungry. By 2023, the United Nations (UN) estimates that at least 339 million people worldwide will need humanitarian assistance and protection.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has described the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) as "a United Nations success story." I couldn't agree more. Since its creation seventeen years ago, the Fund has proven to be one of the fastest and most effective ways to finance global humanitarian action. It would be very welcome if more people were aware of the Fund and would donate to CERF. The Emergency Response Fund finances humanitarian aid that goes where it is needed most urgently.

Finding your way among thousands of organizations seeking your donations is not always easy. How do you recognize a reputable donation organization? DONARE has compiled some information on what to look for to distinguish reputable charities from less trustworthy fundraisers. First of all, the humanitarian organizations selected on the website are all considered reputable and trustworthy. If there is reasonable doubt about this, the humanitarian organizations will no longer be featured, their fundraising will no longer be supported.

Whether it's US Congress, UK House of Commons or the European Parliament, personal letters and personal emails from constituents can be an effective way to communicate with your representatives. DONARE has put together some basic tips on what to look for if you are writing to a MP or other parliamentary representative.

Thank you to all who pay attention to the suffering and needs of people in crises around the world. Thank you to all who do not close their eyes to wars, conflicts and human rights violations worldwide. Thank you to all who pay attention to humanitarian needs, even if it is often painful. Thank you to all who recognize the grave consequences that climate change is already having on the survival of millions.

Many people find it preferable to donate for a specific purpose. They want to be sure that their donation will reach those in need and will be used for a specific mission. The designation of a donation purpose is experienced as concrete and binding. Behind the motivation, there is sometimes also a feeling of mistrust toward an aid organization.