In a new survey released on May 13, 2025, UN Women warned that half of the women’s organizations responding to humanitarian crises around the world could shut down within six months due to widespread cuts in international aid.

According to the agency, 308 million people across 73 countries currently require humanitarian assistance, a number that continues to grow amid “escalating conflicts, climate change, food insecurity, and disease outbreaks.”

The findings were published in UN Women’s newly launched report, “At a Breaking Point: The Impact of Foreign Aid Cuts on Women’s Organizations in Humanitarian Crises Worldwide.” Based on a rapid global survey of 411 women-led and women’s rights organizations operating in 44 crisis-affected regions, the report reveals that 90 percent of surveyed organizations have already experienced funding reductions.

“Women and girls simply cannot afford to lose the lifelines that women’s organizations are providing,” said Sofia Calltorp, Chief of UN Women Humanitarian Action. “Despite their roles as essential providers, advocates, and watchdogs, women’s organizations have been severely underfunded even before the recent wave of reductions. Supporting and resourcing them is not only a matter of equality and rights, but it is also a strategic imperative.”

The report underscores that women and girls are disproportionately impacted by crises, facing “preventable pregnancy-related deaths, malnutrition, and high rates of sexual violence.” Yet, the humanitarian system is grappling with a significant funding shortfall, placing vital, life-saving services for women and girls at risk.

Nearly half, 47 percent, of the organizations surveyed expect to close their operations within six months if current funding levels persist. In addition, the report highlights that 51 percent of organizations have already been forced to suspend critical programs, including those that support survivors of gender-based violence and provide access to protection, healthcare, cash assistance, and livelihoods. Alarmingly, 72 percent report having to lay off staff, often at substantial levels.

Despite these challenges, women’s organizations continue to lead from the frontlines, championing their communities, offering critical services, and rebuilding lives with resilience.

“UN Women stands alongside women’s organizations worldwide, echoing their urgent call for sustained funding,” the statement emphasized. “These organizations are cornerstones of our collective humanitarian response—driving change, offering hope, and delivering critical support to women, girls and their communities in the world’s toughest crises.”

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