Undercurrents: Humanitarian system failure, and crisis in Afghanistan

A record number of people across the world are in need of humanitarian aid. Why is this situation worsening? And what must be done to address it?

Audio Published 28 January 2022 45 minute listen

A record number of people across the world are in need of humanitarian assistance. 20 countries which are home to 10% of the global population account for 89% of global humanitarian need, driven by a wide range of factors including conflict, natural disasters, economic collapse and health crises. These situations are worsened by systemic failures at the state, diplomatic, legal and operational levels. The International Rescue Committee’s 2022 Emergency Watchlist assesses the severity of the crises in these countries, and provides recommendations for how international humanitarian actors can respond. 

In this episode, Ben discusses the findings of the Emergency Watchlist with George Readings, and hears about the specific struggles facing the citizens of Afghanistan from Vicki Aken.