Sudan, Occupied Palestinian Territories, and South Sudan Top IRC’s Emergency Watchlist
In a statement, IRC chief David Miliband emphasized the need for greater focus on climate adaption, women’s empowerment, “people-first” banking, support for displaced individuals, and measures to combat impunity. The International Rescue Committee’s (IRC) emergency watchlist ranks Sudan as the highest priority, followed by the occupied Palestinian territories and South Sudan. Additionally, the list includes nine Sub-Saharan nations, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon, Yemen, Ukraine, Ecuador, and Haiti. These 20 territories represent only 10% of the global population, yet they account for 86% of global humanitarian needs, 70% of displaced persons, and an increasing number of those facing extreme poverty and climate risks.
According to the IRC, Sudan claimed the top spot due to large-scale urban warfare with minimal international attention, while the Palestinian territory of Gaza starts 2024 as the deadliest place for civilians worldwide. While some African countries have made significant strides in improving living standards, conflicts, coups, and poverty are surging at alarming rates. The IRC also highlighted the El Nino weather phenomenon as a threat to extreme climate events.
Ecuador, which is home to many Venezuelan refugees, has been included for the first time. The country experiences a rise in violent crime, largely attributed to drug trafficking, exacerbating the economic impacts of the pandemic and climate risks. Meanwhile, Haiti faces immense challenges, with nearly half of its population requiring humanitarian aid. The IRC expressed skepticism that potential UN efforts to assist the police in combating powerful armed gangs would significantly improve conditions in the upcoming year.