Humanitarian Crises in 2025: a World Increasingly Out of Balance

Every year, millions of people are affected and displaced by conflict and disasters worldwide. Who are the world’s most vulnerable and what can the global community do to help them?

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) produces a yearly Emergency Watchlist which reports on the 20 countries most at risk of worsening humanitarian needs. The 2025 edition reveals a world increasingly out of balance. Just 20 countries, home to only 11% of the global population, account for a staggering 82% of global humanitarian needs. This year’s report is topped by Sudan, the occupied Palestinian territory, and Myanmar.

PSIA is delighted to host the launch of the report by IRC Senior Vice President Harlem Désir, who provides an overview of its findings and where the IRC will focus its emergency preparedness efforts in 2025. IRC’s recommendations on how to break the cycle of crisis in the listed countries are also being explored. A Q&A session, chaired by Anne Charbord, international Human rights lawyer and PSIA faculty member, provides students the opportunity to engage with Mr. Désir’s analysis of the humanitarian needs unfolding globally.

Watch the replay of the event: