10 Humanitarian Crises to Know About Right Now
Save the Children is already working to identify 2023 humanitarian crises before they deteriorate and is working to protect children and to support their recovery.
Learn more about why Yemen is one of 2023's Most Urgent Humanitarian Crises.
After eight years of conflict in Yemen, 11 million children are struggling to survive
Escalation of conflict, embargoes and a collapsed economy have pushed 80% of the population below the poverty line
Yemen rank's #1 on the list of top ten worst conflict-affected countries for children
Yemen has been in the grip of a humanitarian catastrophe for over eight years, as the country is caught in a vicious cycle of armed conflict, economic crisis and disruptions to vital public services. The armed conflict that began escalating in 2014-2015, has been the main driver of the humanitarian crisis in Yemen.
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The situation is dire for the country's population of 32.6 million, with an estimated 21.6 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in 2023, including 11.1 million children.
Back to TopThe economy of Yemen has been decimated by the ongoing armed conflict, with macroeconomic instability, de facto separation of economic institutions, import restrictions and natural disasters all contributing to its weakening. This has led to the reversal of past development gains and a shrinkage of the economy by half since the escalation of the conflict.
Back to TopA glimmer of hope for Yemen’s people emerged in April 2022, when a UN-brokered ceasefire was agreed upon. The six-month ceasefire period, which expired on 2 October, led to a sharp reduction in conflict-induced civilian casualties, including a 34% decrease in child casualties.
Back to TopClimate change and natural hazards also have a significant impact on children and civilians in Yemen. The country is highly vulnerable to climate-related hazards, such as floods and droughts, which can lead to food insecurity and displacement. These hazards also exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in the country and make it even more difficult for civilians, including children, to access basic needs such as food and healthcare.
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In 2023, it is projected that 378,000 people will be newly displaced, adding to the 4.5 million currently displaced.
Back to TopSave the Children is the biggest NGO in Yemen and has been working with Yemeni children since 1963. Save the Children significantly increased its humanitarian response when the conflict began in 2015, and despite the enormous challenges, Save the Children continues to reach the most vulnerable children across Yemen.
Our programs are aimed at making sure children in Yemen have enough food to eat, can access healthcare, can continue their education, and are protected from violence.
Back to TopSince the beginning of the crisis, Save the Children has reached more than five million children with crucial support.
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