United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the global humanitarian system is facing its most severe test in history. Speaking at a high-level pledging event in New York, marking the 20th anniversary of the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), Guterres highlighted a dramatic decline in donor contributions.
“Donor contributions have plummeted to their lowest level since 2015,” Guterres stated, emphasizing the detrimental impact on the UN’s ability to respond to emergencies worldwide. He described the CERF as a vital lifeline for humanitarian operations.
The Secretary-General noted that the CERF has disbursed nearly $10 billion in life-saving assistance across more than 100 countries since 2006. This aid, delivered in partnership with over 20 UN agencies and hundreds of other organizations, has benefited tens of millions of people annually.
Guterres cited examples of the Fund’s rapid response, including ensuring the delivery of essential fuel supplies to hospitals, water networks, and other critical services in Gaza. He also mentioned the expansion of support to 2.5 million people in Sudan facing food shortages, water scarcity, and healthcare needs due to escalating violence in Kordofan and Darfur.
“I urge you to help us meet the Fund’s $1 billion target, as approved by the General Assembly, and to maintain predictable humanitarian funding for years to come,” Guterres appealed. He called for a renewed commitment to the promise made when the CERF was established: “When disaster strikes, help will come.”
The UN Secretary-General’s stark warning underscores the urgent need for increased global support to address the growing humanitarian challenges facing the world.
