News|Humanitarian Crises‘New world disorder’: Sudan, Palestine top IRC’s 2026 Emergency Watchlist‘Geopolitical rivalries, shifting alliances, transactional deals’ dominate as most vulnerable are plunged into deeper crisis.

A recent report highlights significant global humanitarian challenges, with Sudan and Palestine identified as facing the highest levels of risk. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) released its 2026 Emergency Watchlist on Tue, Dec 15, 2025, identifying these regions as top priorities.

The report underscores a concerning trend of increasing crises alongside decreasing funding, suggesting a shift from the post-World War II rules-based order to a new, more chaotic global environment. Geopolitical tensions, shifting alliances, and transactional diplomacy are contributing to multiple crises and diminishing support for vulnerable populations.

Sudan and Palestine have experienced significant challenges due to geopolitical dynamics. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has faced numerous vetoes, hindering effective responses. Russia has blocked ceasefire efforts in Sudan, while the United States vetoed ceasefire proposals for Gaza before proposing a peace plan supported by regional stakeholders.

The 20 countries on the IRC's watchlist, including South Sudan, Ethiopia, Haiti, Myanmar, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, represent 12% of the global population but account for 89% of the nearly 300 million individuals requiring humanitarian assistance. Notably, 117 million people are forcibly displaced, and 40 million face severe hunger, with funding reduced by 50%, creating a significant gap in humanitarian response capabilities.

Sudan remains at the top of the list for the third consecutive year due to persistent conflict between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in 150,000 fatalities and over 12 million displacements. Approximately 33 million people require aid, with 207,000 facing severe food shortages. The report mentions illicit gold and weapons trade but does not specify the parties involved.

Palestine ranks second due to ongoing violence in Gaza and increasing settler aggression in the West Bank. The report notes limited optimism for external interventions to alleviate conflict in Gaza, where nearly 800 attacks have occurred, leading to approximately 400 deaths since a US-led ceasefire in October. As of late 2025, 641,000 individuals in Gaza are experiencing famine or severe food insecurity, with aid access restricted by Israel.

The report concludes that impunity has reached a dangerous level, with the past year being particularly deadly for humanitarian workers due to attacks on critical infrastructure in Gaza.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.