At the signing event in Geneva, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher acknowledged the challenging conditions faced by aid workers, describing the past year as extremely difficult for everyone involved in humanitarian efforts. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the newly signed memorandum of understanding (MOU).
Fletcher stated that the agreement would ensure that millions more people receive critical support, potentially saving tens of millions of lives in the upcoming year. The MOU addresses 17 crisis-affected countries, including Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Ukraine, Haiti, Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Mozambique, Myanmar, Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, Bangladesh, Syria, Uganda, Kenya, Chad, and the UN Central Emergency Response Fund.
He emphasized the real-world impact of this historic deal, noting that it aligns with the UN’s 2026 plan to assist 87 million people, with a focus on reducing redundancy, cutting bureaucracy, and enhancing the humanitarian system’s efficiency. The agreement is seen as a strong endorsement of the “humanitarian reset” initiative launched by Fletcher in March 2025, aimed at more efficient and targeted aid delivery.
Fletcher underscored the importance of reform and accountability, stressing that donors expect measurable results and that accountability mechanisms will ensure every dollar contributes to saving lives. He clarified that the agreement is centered on urgent priorities rather than total alignment on all issues. Additionally, he highlighted the link between humanitarian aid and diplomacy, urging for 2026 to be a year focused on diplomacy and peacemaking, as ending conflict remains the most effective way to address humanitarian needs.
“This life-saving announcement does not mark the end of the process,” concluded Mr. Fletcher. “This is the beginning.”
Leave a Reply