Belgian humanitarian NGOs are redirecting their efforts to address critical issues, particularly the safeguarding of women and children from sexual violence, abuse, and exploitation in

emergencies and what are termed "forgotten crises." This strategic shift has been solidified through a new financial framework established in collaboration with Belgium's federal minister for Development, Caroline Gennez.

The revised financial framework outlines the geographical areas of focus and budgetary priorities for the next two years. Gennez emphasizes, "We have chosen to concentrate our assistance where urgent needs prevail and international support remains inadequate." She points to regions like the Sahel (Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger), the Great Lakes countries (Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Democratic Republic of Congo), as well as the occupied Palestinian territories and Yemen.

Gennez further addresses the issue that certain humanitarian crises tend to be overlooked due to a lack of political commitment and media coverage. This invisibility results in millions of people in dire need not receiving the crucial assistance they require. Gennez stresses the critical role of humanitarian aid, stating, "Humanitarian aid can make the difference between life and death, whether it's in Ukraine or eastern Congo."

The budget allocated for NGO humanitarian programs for the years 2023-2024 amounts to €53 million. Organizations such as Oxfam, Caritas, VSF, Médécins du Monde, Croix Rouge Belge, Plan International, Handicap International Belgium, and Rode Kruis Vlaanderen are eligible to submit their program proposals by the end of August.

Additionally, NGOs are empowered to allocate a portion of their budget to address unforeseen and acute crisis situations, such as floods or epidemics. Photo by Paul van Welden, Wikimedia commons.