GENEVA – Facing a significant dip in support, primarily from Western nations, the United Nations’ humanitarian aid arm is set to scale back its funding request for 2026. This decision follows the lowest funding levels in a decade.

This past Monday, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs announced it aims to raise $33 billion to support approximately 135 million individuals affected by conflicts, climate-related disasters, earthquakes, epidemics, and food insecurity. The current year’s contributions totaled $15 billion, marking a ten-year low.

For the upcoming year, the office has outlined its priorities, including a request of over $4.1 billion to assist 3 million people within Palestinian territories, $2.9 billion for Sudan—currently facing the largest displacement crisis worldwide—and $2.8 billion for a regional initiative centered on Syria.

OCHA chief Tom Fletcher highlighted the dire circumstances of 2025, noting, “Hunger skyrocketed, food budgets were cut, and famines struck regions like Sudan and Gaza. Health infrastructures crumbled, leading to surges in disease outbreaks. Countless individuals lacked essential food, healthcare, and security. Programs supporting women and girls suffered cuts, and many aid organizations were forced to close their doors.”

Originally, the U.N. aimed for $47 billion this year, intending to aid 190 million people globally. However, due to decreased support, the organization and its partners reached 25 million fewer individuals compared to 2024.

“I know budgets are tight right now. Families everywhere are under strain,” Fletcher said. “But the world spent $2.7 trillion on defense last year – on guns and arms. And I’m asking for just over 1% of that.”

He has called for “radical transformation” of aid by reducing bureaucracy, boosting efficiency and giving more power to local groups. Fletcher cited “very practical, constructive conversations” almost daily with the Trump administration.

“Do I want to shame the world into responding? Absolutely,” Fletcher said. “But I also want to channel this sense of determination and anger that we have as humanitarians, that we will carry on delivering with what we get.”