WHO Raises Alarms Over Humanitarian Crises: Urgent Appeals for Gaza, Sudan, and Ethiopia Amidst Ongoing Global Challenges

In a comprehensive media briefing on January 10, 2024, the WHO Director-General delivered a stark message, shedding light on the dire humanitarian crises unfolding in Gaza, Sudan, and Ethiopia. Additionally, amidst these regional challenges, the ongoing global battle against COVID-19 continues, prompting renewed calls for vigilance and coordinated efforts.

As the conflict between Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory reaches its 100th day, the situation in Gaza has become increasingly dire. Almost 90% of Gaza’s population, totaling 1.9 million people, find themselves displaced, with many forced to move multiple times. Essential services, including healthcare, are severely compromised, as only 15 hospitals are functioning partially. The lack of clean water, sanitation, and overcrowded living conditions create a breeding ground for diseases.

The WHO Director-General emphasized the challenges faced in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Intense bombardment, movement restrictions, fuel shortages, and interrupted communications have made access nearly impossible for WHO and its partners. Despite having the necessary supplies, teams, and plans in place, the critical barrier remains access. The Director-General urged Israel to approve aid requests, stressing the need for a ceasefire, safe passage for humanitarian aid, and the release of hostages.

In Sudan, nine months of conflict have led to increasing violence, mass displacement, and the spread of diseases such as cholera. Reports of sexual and gender-based violence, family separation, and child recruitment have further compounded the humanitarian crisis. Alarming numbers reveal that half a million more people have been displaced in the past month, particularly from the Al-Gezira state, a region that served as a safe haven and WHO hub.

Due to security concerns, WHO has temporarily halted operations in Al-Gezira, intensifying challenges in addressing the crisis. The disrupted annual harvest in the state, considered Sudan’s breadbasket, raises concerns about food insecurity in conflict-affected areas. Even before the conflict, many in Sudan suffered from food insecurity. The current conditions exacerbate the situation, especially for vulnerable groups such as children under five and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

In Ethiopia’s north-western region of Amhara, conflict since April 2023 has triggered a severe health crisis. Restricted access to health facilities, damage or destruction due to fighting, and obstacles hindering the provision of humanitarian assistance are major concerns. The Director-General highlighted a multiagency report indicating that 61 health facilities have been fully damaged, and 39 partially damaged in Amhara due to the recent conflict. Conflict, drought, and displacement are driving widespread hunger and disease outbreaks.

The El Nino phenomenon has exacerbated conditions in Ethiopia, affecting over 17 million people, with the northern areas being particularly concerning. Disease outbreaks, including cholera, malaria, measles, leishmaniasis, and dengue, are on the rise. The Director-General stressed the urgent need for access to the affected areas to assess the needs and respond accordingly.

Global COVID-19 Concerns: Lingering Threats and Preventable Deaths

While the world grapples with regional crises, the WHO emphasized that COVID-19, though no longer a global health emergency, remains a significant threat. Data from various sources indicate increasing transmission, particularly fueled by holiday gatherings and the JN.1 variant. The Director-General reported nearly 10,000 deaths in December, with a 42% increase in hospitalizations and a 62% increase in ICU admissions compared to November.

Despite these trends being based on data from less than 50 countries, mostly in Europe and the Americas, the Director-General stressed that there are likely increases in other unreported countries. Urging governments to maintain surveillance and sequencing, the WHO called for continued access to affordable and reliable tests, treatments, and vaccines. The Director-General reinforced the importance of individual responsibility, encouraging vaccination, testing, mask-wearing, and ensuring well-ventilated indoor spaces.

The briefing concluded with a glimpse into WHO’s commitment to responding to global emergencies. The Health Emergency Appeal for 2024, set to release on Monday, will outline the organization’s plans to reach almost 90 million people with lifesaving support in 41 emergencies worldwide. Despite the challenges, the Director-General remains optimistic, stating that the coming year will be a test for humanity. WHO calls for unity, transcending divisions, suspicion, and narrow nationalism, to collectively seek the common good. The organization remains steadfast in its dedication to promoting, providing, and protecting the health of the world’s people in 2024 and beyond.