The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has announced that it will be forced to suspend ongoing and urgent U.S.-funded aid programs in nations affected by war, disasters, and displacement. This decision comes as a result of the suspension, partial withholding, or lack of reimbursement of U.S. funding for the NRC’s global humanitarian operations, impacting hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people.
The NRC, which relies on funding from the U.S. as well as other major contributors like Norway, the EU, Sweden, and Germany, received nearly 20% of its funding ($150 million) from the U.S. in 2024. This support enabled the organization to reach around 1.6 million people across various humanitarian projects worldwide.
In a statement, the NRC expressed deep concern over the abrupt discontinuation of aid funding, a situation it has never faced in its 79-year history. The organization warned of severe consequences for crisis-affected populations, including the suspension of aid distribution in Ukraine and staff layoffs in Afghanistan.
While the NRC welcomed a temporary waiver for life-saving aid from the U.S., it emphasized that past payments must be resumed for the organization to benefit. The impact of the aid cuts is particularly significant in Africa, where the NRC operates in 18 countries, providing essential humanitarian aid and protection for displaced populations.
From delivering clean water to 300,000 people in Djibo, Burkina Faso, to supporting bakeries in Darfur, Sudan, the NRC plays a critical role in addressing some of the most desperate crises in the region. The organization focuses on key areas such as food security, education, shelter, legal assistance, protection from violence, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
As of May 2024, the NRC is active in approximately 40 countries, with a strong presence in Africa, including countries like Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. The organization’s work in these regions is vital for supporting vulnerable populations and mitigating the impact of conflicts and disasters.
