Global humanitarian needs for children have reached historic highs amid deepening funding gaps.
UNICEF has launched its Humanitarian Action for Children 2026 appeal, requesting US$7.66 billion to support 73 million children living through conflict, displacement, climate disasters and economic crisis across 133 countries and territories. The request marks a significant reduction from the 2025 appeal, reflecting a sharper focus on the children facing the greatest risk.
UNICEF’s Executive Director said children today are living through violence, the threat of famine, intensifying climate shocks and the breakdown of essential services — forces far beyond their control. Despite severe funding shortfalls in recent years, UNICEF and its partners reached millions of children in 2025 with measles vaccinations, safe water, education support and treatment for severe malnutrition.
Source: UNICEF, UNICEF USA
