Challenges
Message from the Federal Executive Board
Review 2025Dear Friends,
The past year has presented us with dramatic challenges: the ongoing wars in Sudan, Ukraine, and the Middle East, as well as devastating earthquakes in Myanmar and Afghanistan, have caused immeasurable suffering for hundreds of thousands of people.
At the same time, the humanitarian system is facing profound changes, not least due to dramatic cuts in funding for humanitarian aid. In Germany alone, since 2022, funding for development cooperation has fallen by 27 percent, and funding for humanitarian aid has fallen by as much as 70 percent.
The consequences are visible worldwide; for example, the shortage of medicines and supplementary food, scaled-back nutrition programs, and closed medical facilities are leading to entire regions losing access to basic healthcare.
Against this backdrop, we have strategically realigned our international aid efforts. With a decentralized organisational structure, a clear focus, and increased engagement in Africa, Asia, and Europe, we are ensuring that our work continues to make an impact. Above all, strengthening local structures remains a core priority for greater sustainability.
We thank all our employees, volunteers, and supporters for their unwavering commitment. Together, we remain a reliable partner for people in need.
Oliver Meermann and Thomas Mähnert,
Members of the Federal Executive Board
We are ensuring that our work continues to make a difference to those in need of support through strategic adjustments and a new structure.