An operating environment of vast humanitarian needs
The year 2023 presented multiple and concurrent crises that adversely affected millions of people’s lives and shaped the ICRC’s operating environment.
Around 120 armed conflicts were ongoing globally, involving more than 60 states and some 120 non-state armed groups; hundreds more armed groups were involved in other situations of violence. Intensified hostilities generated vast humanitarian needs, necessitating large-scale emergency responses. At the same time, protracted crises dragged on, straining communities’ coping mechanisms and highlighting the need for programmes with a sustainable humanitarian impact.
As the ICRC marked its 160th anniversary, we continued to deliver humanitarian protection and assistance to conflict victims around the world. Rooted in international humanitarian law (IHL), our unique mandate, and our neutral, impartial and independent approach, enabled us to navigate a complex landscape and reach people that few others could.