Experts Highlight Urgent $7 Billion Funding Gap To Address Global Refugee Needs This Year

During the 14th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) in Sharjah, experts discussed a significant funding shortfall for refugee needs worldwide. The gap exceeds $7 billion, highlighting the urgent requirement for sustainable solutions across over 137 countries. Participants included Issa Al Habib, Jennifer Greco from Adyen, Maywand Jabarkhyl of FBMI, and Khaled Kabbara from UNHCR.

Khaled Kabbara noted that the global number of forcibly displaced individuals has reached 122 million. This includes 16.6 million in the Middle East and North Africa. He explained that UNHCR supports refugees directly or indirectly in 137 countries. However, only 23% of the $10 billion required this year had been raised by mid-year.

Jennifer Greco stressed the importance of flexible funding models to address refugees' varied needs. She highlighted the role of individual and retail donations amid increasing pressures on displaced populations. Greco also advocated for expanded private sector partnerships to initiate urgent projects that provide immediate relief while ensuring long-term support.

Maywand Jabarkhyl detailed FBMI’s humanitarian efforts in countries like Afghanistan, focusing on improving women's conditions. He urged legislative backing for refugees alongside funding and projects that enhance their stability and independence. Recognising the crisis's magnitude is crucial for developing sustainable joint solutions.

Issa Al Habib emphasised technology-driven initiatives to aid refugees, advocating for using Zakat funds to meet their needs. "If we all contributed Zakat, there would be no poverty in the world," he stated. Al Habib encouraged content creators to work with UNICEF and other international bodies to inspire hope and share refugees’ human stories.

Kabbara highlighted UNHCR’s 75-year legacy in swiftly addressing refugees' basic needs while fostering cooperation among governments, private sectors, and individuals. This collaboration aims to raise awareness and respond effectively to the ongoing crisis.

The forum underscored the necessity of comprehensive strategies involving diverse stakeholders to bridge the funding gap and support millions of displaced people worldwide effectively.

With inputs from WAM