Emergencies

When violence breaks out and disaster strikes, donor support allows UNHCR to move directly into action.

UNHCR is often the first and last responder when refugee crises break out. With the capacity to have staff and equipment on the ground within 72 hours, we not only respond to urgent needs, but also protect the rights of refugees while working to provide them with a better future.

Learn more about UNHCR's emergency response

The Venezuela crisis

The political, social and economic crisis Venezuela is currently going through has brought about violence, insecurity and the deterioration of basic human rights. Shortages in food, medicine and essential services are making matters worse.

Humanitarian crisis in Yemen

The ongoing civil war in Yemen, which started in 2015, has caused the world's worst humanitarian crisis to date: four out of five Yemeni can’t survive without outside aid, and 17 million people are on the brink of starvation.

Emergency in the Sahel

The situation in the Sahel is the fastest growing displacement and protection crisis in the world. Conflict areas continue to expand, overwhelmingly affecting women and children.

Crisis in the Central African Republic

The Central African Republic is one of the poorest countries in the world. The coup led by the Seleka rebels in March 2013 to oust the President wreaked havoc, thrusting an already vulnerable population into a state of crisis.

Civil War in South Sudan

The refugee crisis in South Sudan is the largest in Africa, and the third largest in the world after Syria and Afghanistan.

Violence in the DRC

People are fleeing their homes at an alarming rate, while increasing violence is destroying lives and livelihoods throughout the country.

News

Our latest news in relation with the emergencies.

Our latest news

Crisis in Sudan: 5 things to know about one of the worst humanitarian crises

Since 2023, the war in Sudan has displaced more than 12 million people. Discover 5 key facts and how you can help refugees.

Emergency

Tue 01/04/2025 - 07:17

Three years of war in Ukraine: refugee stories of strength and hope

Three years into the Ukraine war, UNHCR continues providing aid, protection & hope to refugees and displaced families. Learn how you can help.

Emergency

Fri 21/02/2025 - 08:20

Millions of people protected with your support in 2024

In 2024, UNHCR faced numerous challenges, responding to 43 emergencies, including conflicts, climate disasters, and disease outbreaks. With 91% of its workforce in the field, UNHCR provided critical aid and protection to millions of displaced people.

Emergency

Thu 30/01/2025 - 16:02

Heavy air strikes on Lebanon: Tens of thousands of displaced people need help

Emergency

Tue 24/09/2024 - 17:39

“Civilians did not start this war, yet they pay the price for it.”

The fighting in Sudan has been going on for more than a year now. More and more atrocities are coming to light and the civilian population is suffering. 9 million people have already had to leave their homes in the East African country and seek refuge in

Echos from the field

Mon 01/07/2024 - 08:02

One year of conflict in Sudan: "It's heartbreaking to see these people"

The conflict in Sudan began a year ago. The UNHCR regional director in charge describes the situation as heartbreaking.

UNHCR

Fri 12/04/2024 - 11:46

Ongoing violence in DR Congo: almost 2 million refugees expected this year

Fighting continues in the DR Congo, UNHCR expects almost 2 million refugees this year and therefore needs almost USD 670 million.

Emergency

Tue 05/03/2024 - 15:13