Introduction
War and instability combined with climate change and economic crises are causing more and more people to become dependent on humanitarian aid. The increased needs and the growing complexity of humanitarian crises require a flexible and powerful humanitarian system that can respond effectively.
The Netherlands works with UN organisations, the Red Cross, the Start Fund and the Dutch Relief Alliance to offer life-saving assistance. Specific attention is paid to vulnerable groups, such as women, children, people with disabilities or people with mental health problems. We also devote attention to the fact that emergency aid is all-embracing, covering more than food, medical care and shelter. Mental health and psychosocial support, education and sexual and reproductive health and rights are equally important. In addition, the Netherlands uses its political influence to champion the interests of people in need and to ensure that humanitarian organisations are able to do their work unhindered.
The current climate in which humanitarian organisations operate – characterised by increasing needs and growing complexity – requires improving the efficiency and effectiveness of aid. The Netherlands is therefore investing in:
strengthening the capacity of national and local organisations to offer emergency aid;
innovation in humanitarian response;
improving coordination, transparency and leadership within the system.