EC announces 2 billion USD humanitarian aid budget for 2026
(VOVWORLD) - The European Commission on Wednesday announced its initial humanitarian aid budget of 1.9 billion euros or 2.22 billion USD for 2026, at a time when 239 million people worldwide need assistance and the US is cutting funding significantly.
The initial allocation includes 557 million euros to West and Central Africa, the largest recipient. The Middle East, particularly Gaza, is expected to get 448 million euros.
From the total amount, the EU will provide 145 million euros for humanitarian needs in Ukraine. More than 415 million euros is reserved for responding to sudden-onset emergencies worldwide, and to maintaining a strategic supply chain.
The US termination and sharp reduction of aid through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the Trump administration have created a significant resource gap, forcing the EU to step up its role and mobilize additional financing to meet urgent needs.