The International Committee of the Red Cross expresses its deep concern about the impact of the decline in humanitarian aid on people suffering the consequences of armed conflicts and acts of violence.

13 September 2023(Pen) – The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has outlined measures to maximize the effectiveness of its humanitarian assistance in line with its initial 2024 budget projection of CHF 2.1 billion.

The ICRC said the initial projected budget for 2024 was 13 per cent lower than the ICRC's revised 2023 budget. As a result, the capacity of ICRC delegations to provide assistance to those in need will be reduced, as operational budgets and staff downsizing increases. The ICRC is deeply concerned about the impact of reduced humanitarian assistance on people suffering the consequences of armed conflict and violence.

The ICRC's 2024 budget projections come amid a trend towards cutting humanitarian budgets, even as global humanitarian needs reach unprecedented levels, as evidenced by the ongoing armed conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine and the Sahel region. The ICRC said it had already faced financial difficulties in 2023 that led to many job cuts and the closure or downsizing of some branches.

The ICRC also stated that adjustment to this economic situation would require further significant staff reductions in some branches.

"We count on and appreciate the support of donors for our critical humanitarian mission, including those who increased their funding in 2023 despite the difficult financial situation," the ICRC said. The ICRC continues to rely on their voluntary contributions so that we can provide protection and life-saving assistance in areas of armed conflict.

In 2024, the ICRC stated that it would implement a carefully researched global strategy that prioritizes areas where the ICRC is uniquely valued, experienced and accessible as a neutral humanitarian organization. We will also leverage our operations and institutional structures to deliver more efficient services to those most in need.

In their view, the main objective is to ensure that the ICRC reaches those affected in areas close to frontlines that other organizations do not; to provide protection services such as working in detention centres and reuniting families separated by the conflict; acting as a neutral intermediary; and promoting respect for international humanitarian law to reduce the human cost of war.