Humanitarian Same, Reset or Dispatch: what does fit for purpose look like?

The diminishing political support for the aid agenda and basic humanitarian principles (like International Humanitarian Law) signals that we have likely passed the peak of humanitarian aid. Ten years ago, when the ‘Grand Bargain’ was introduced, the sector was already struggling to remain effective. Without radical changes, it won’t be able to continue much longer.

So, what does this mean for now and the coming years? Resetting the system means facing uncomfortable truths, identifying opportunities, making difficult decisions, and acting quickly—all within an uncertain and unstable environment. Or is principled humanitarian action becoming a thing of the past?

In this open and interactive session, we’ll hear from humanitarian leaders about how they are adapting to and planning for change.

We want you to join the conversation, share your thoughts, and ask questions. This is a chance to shape the future of humanitarian aid with boldness, honesty, and vulnerability.

Together, let’s reset the system by exploring key questions such as:

– What does the changing landscape mean for dignity, cash transfers, quality, and localization of aid?

– How is your organization adapting, and what innovative opportunities are emerging?

– What should be prioritized, what can be let go, and how can we drive meaningful change?

The diminishing political support for the aid agenda and basic humanitarian principles (like International Humanitarian Law) signals that we have likely passed the peak of humanitarian aid. Ten years ago, when the ‘Grand Bargain’ was introduced, the sector was already struggling to remain effective. Without radical changes, it won’t be able to continue much longer.

Speakers

Moderator

Alper Küçük, Director-General for International Affairs and Migration, Türk Kızılay / Turkish Red Crescent.

Panel

Cate Turton, Director, Calp Network

Diana Antir, Coordinator Caritas Moldova

Gemma Connell, Chief, Assessment, Planning & Monitoring Branch, UNOCHA

Louis Hoffman, Senior Advisor on Solutions for the IOM Department of Humanitarian Response and Recovery, IOM

Mamdouh Tello, National Program Specialist, Canadian Red Cross