Reference News Network, November 22 report: According to the website of Singapore's "Lianhe Zaobao" on November 21, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced on November 21 that it will cut its 2026 budget by 17%, reducing it to 1.8 billion Swiss francs (approximately 2.23 billion U.S. dollars), and lay off 2,900 people.
Reuters reported that due to donors shifting their focus to defense, the aid budget is facing an unprecedented gap, forcing this humanitarian organization to make difficult choices in the face of multiple conflicts and an unprecedented surge in displaced people.
Meanwhile, under Trump's leadership, the world's largest donor country, the United States, is carrying out a comprehensive reform of its foreign aid programs.
ICRC President Spoljaric said after a meeting: "The ICRC remains committed to working on the front lines of conflicts, where few other organizations can operate."
"But the severe financial reality forces us to make difficult decisions to ensure that we can continue to provide crucial humanitarian aid to those who need it most."
This round of layoffs accounts for approximately 15% of the ICRC's global workforce of more than 18,000 employees, following a series of austerity measures taken by the organization in 2023.
The statement said that one-third of the layoffs will be carried out through voluntary departures, with vacant positions retained.
The ICRC operates in over 90 countries and regions, covering activities such as providing basic humanitarian aid and visiting prisoners of war.
The organization plays a neutral mediation role in conflicts and, according to the October 10 Israel-Palestine ceasefire agreement, has transferred hostages and Palestinian prisoners from Gaza.
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