EU Allocates €60 Million in Humanitarian Aid for the DRC in 2025

The European Commission has allocated €60 million in humanitarian aid for the DRC for 2025, focusing on assisting displaced populations affected by conflict. This funding increases the EU’s total aid to the DRC to over €272 million in 2023. Key areas of assistance include shelter, clean water, food support, and education for vulnerable children. Protection of civilians remains paramount amid ongoing violence.

The European Commission has announced an allocation of €60 million in humanitarian aid for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for 2025, aiming to enhance emergency assistance for populations displaced by conflicts, particularly around Goma. The aid will address immediate needs such as shelter, clean water, food supplies, and education for vulnerable children affected by conflict.

This new funding increases the EU’s total humanitarian aid to the DRC to over €272 million since the beginning of 2023. Furthermore, the EU continues to support humanitarian flights that facilitate the delivery of aid throughout eastern DRC. Protection of civilians remains a key focus, especially in relation to gender-based violence and the integration of health services.

Hadja Lahbib, the Commissioner for Preparedness, Crisis Management, and Equality, emphasized the EU’s commitment to aiding the most vulnerable people amid ongoing violence, stating that humanitarian funding will be distributed promptly despite obstacles. She underlined the necessity of upholding international humanitarian law, particularly in areas experiencing intense conflict.

The humanitarian crisis in the DRC is exacerbated by conflict, poverty, malnutrition, and disease outbreaks. Prior to the recent surge in violence, approximately 800,000 people were already internally displaced around Goma, with many camps now empty due to fleeing inhabitants. Humanitarian access in conflict zones remains incredibly challenging.

Recent data indicates that over 480,000 individuals have been newly displaced in North Kivu since October 2024, in addition to 178,000 in South Kivu, compounding the existing displacement of 6.4 million people throughout the country.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo faces one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, intensified by ongoing conflict, widespread poverty, and frequent disease outbreaks. The situation has led to significant displacement, with millions of individuals currently affected or in need of humanitarian assistance. The EU and its Member States have proactively provided humanitarian support since the onset of the crisis, highlighting their commitment to addressing urgent needs in the region. Recent escalations in violence have further complicated efforts to deliver aid effectively to vulnerable populations.

In summary, the European Union’s provision of €60 million in humanitarian aid for the DRC is a crucial step to address the escalating humanitarian crisis fueled by conflict and displacement. The funding will support various needs, including shelter, food, and education, emphasizing the EU’s ongoing commitment to protecting civilians and delivering aid despite challenging conditions. With millions already displaced, sustained support and access to humanitarian assistance remain critical for those affected in the region.

Original Source: civil-protection-humanitarian-aid.ec.europa.eu