Spain Calls for Urgent Humanitarian Action Amid Escalating Global Crisis
The Government of Spain, through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has reached out to the European Commission, specifically to High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, urging a 'humanitarian reboot' in light of the dire global humanitarian crisis described as the worst since World War II. In a letter, the Spanish Government highlighted a staggering projection where over 300 million people will be in urgent need by 2025, coinciding with political pressure from leaders like Donald Trump advocating for cuts to humanitarian budgets.
This initiative, spearheaded by Spain and backed by France, Belgium, Ireland, and Slovenia, envisions the European Union positioning itself as a central figure in the international response to this escalating humanitarian situation. In 2024, the EU's contribution to humanitarian aid accounted for more than 37%, and now these nations are calling for that figure to be increased well beyond 2027.
The letter stresses the essentiality of reaffirming a collective commitment to inclusive, principle-based humanitarian action, alongside a strict adherence to International Humanitarian Law. To enhance efficiency and effectiveness in addressing the humanitarian crisis, greater cooperation among various organizations, including local groups, is being demanded by these countries.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, diplomatic sources from the Spanish Executive have reiterated the need for cooperation, emphasizing that the EU must engage fully and staunchly advocate for development cooperation as well as the actions taken by organizations like UNHCR. They also firmly oppose budget cuts that threaten these vital humanitarian efforts, countering the unilateral vision proposed by Trump.
The letter serves as a clarion call, warning of a serious crisis not only within the humanitarian system but also reflecting a broader crisis in multilateralism. The Spanish officials noted that there is a risk of losing decades of progress in humanitarian action, sustainable development, and gender equality, all of which are best preserved within a robust multilateral framework.
As the situation intensifies globally, the sense of urgency from Spain and its allies underscores the importance of a unified and strong response to mitigate the impending humanitarian disaster.
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