🔴 1. Sudan: Civil War, Hunger, and Health Collapse
Sudan is once again at the top of IRC’s Emergency Watchlist. The civil war between the SAF and RSF is destroying civilian lives. Around 750,000 people reached the most critical hunger level in 2024, and famine is feared in 2025. Healthcare has collapsed, and treatable diseases like cholera are spreading. Both warring parties are accused of human rights violations, including sexual violence and forced child recruitment. IRC is providing emergency aid across several states.
🔴 2. Gaza & West Bank: Starvation and Ongoing Conflict
After Hamas’ attack on Israel in 2023, Gaza has been under heavy Israeli military operations. The result is widespread hunger and infrastructure collapse. Almost the entire Gaza population faces food insecurity. In the West Bank, tensions are rising due to settlement expansion. IRC is offering clean water, child nutrition, mental health care, and medical help in Gaza, along with safety and education programs in the West Bank.
🔴 3. Myanmar: Civil War and Climate Disasters Collide
Since the 2021 military coup, Myanmar’s situation has worsened. Over 3 million people are displaced by armed conflict. At the same time, climate disasters like floods and cyclones are rising. Health care and water access are severely limited. The IRC has been active here since 2008, providing medical aid, clean drinking water, and protection services for children and vulnerable communities.
🔴 4. Syria: 14 Years of Crisis, Now Worse
Syria remains in deep crisis even after 14 years of war. The 2023 earthquake added to the misery. About 72% of people need humanitarian aid. Nearly half of all health centers have shut down, and water scarcity is a major issue. With renewed conflict risks from Turkey and terrorist groups, 2025 could be worse. IRC is helping with mobile health teams, cash support, and protection services for women and children.
🔴 5. South Sudan: Floods, Famine and Refugee Challenges
Climate change and ongoing conflict have devastated South Sudan. Floods in 2024 destroyed crops and homes. Over 878,000 refugees urgently need help. The local food system has collapsed, worsening hunger. IRC is providing critical support in the form of food, clean water, shelter, and health care services, especially for displaced families and children.
🔴 6. Lebanon: Crippled by Conflict and Economic Collapse
The Israel-Hezbollah conflict has forced over 1.4 million people to flee their homes. Hospitals are shutting down and the economy has nearly collapsed, with the Lebanese pound losing 98% of its value. Essential services are unavailable. IRC is working here to deliver emergency food, medical aid, economic support, and temporary shelters to affected populations.
🔴 7. Burkina Faso: Violence, Blockades and Starvation
Burkina Faso is facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to armed groups like ISGS and JNIM. Entire towns are cut off, with no access to food or water. People are fleeing violence in large numbers. The IRC has been working here since 2019 to improve access to health, education, and food security, while also supporting safety and livelihoods for displaced populations.
🔴 8. Haiti: Government Collapse and Gang Control
Following the assassination of its President, Haiti is now controlled largely by violent gangs. These groups have overtaken cities, and the government has lost control. Violence, poverty, and lack of health care have pushed the country into deep crisis. IRC is addressing urgent needs by providing medical services, clean water, sanitation, and women’s safety programs.
🔴 9. Mali: War, Climate Change and No Peacekeepers
Mali has been in conflict for over a decade, and the exit of UN and French peacekeeping forces has made things worse. Hunger and violence are increasing. Climate change is also worsening food insecurity. IRC is actively providing nutrition programs, education for children, and empowerment programs for women in affected regions.
🔴 10. Somalia: Terror and Drought Devastation
Somalia faces dual threats from militant group Al-Shabab and years of extreme drought. In 2024 alone, more than 120 terrorist attacks were reported. The drought, lasting from 2021 to 2023, has wiped out crops and water sources. The IRC has been working in Somalia since 1981 and is now delivering water, health care, and mobile medical services to those in need.
Conclusion: A Crisis That Can’t Be Ignored
These 10 countries represent some of the world’s worst humanitarian emergencies in 2025. War, political instability, and climate change have left millions without food, shelter, health care, or safety. While governments struggle or fail to respond, organizations like the IRC are stepping in to save lives. You too can be part of the solution — donate, spread awareness, or volunteer. Even a small action can bring hope to someone fighting for survival.
