NEW YORK, Dec. 5, 2024 — The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) launched its 2025 global appeal, seeking $1.4 billion to provide life-saving reproductive health services and gender-based violence prevention programs for over 45 million women, girls, and young people in 57 crisis-hit countries. This comes as an estimated 11 million pregnant women will need urgent support next year.
Rising Crises Leave Women and Girls Vulnerable
Global crises displaced a record 122.6 million people in 2024, with women and girls making up half of those affected. Disasters and climate shocks increased risks during pregnancy and childbirth while escalating gender-based violence. Insufficient funding in 2024 left a 75% resource gap across 34 crises, resulting in millions losing access to essential care.
Call for Investment in Health and Dignity
“In every crisis, women and girls face profound risks,” said UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem. “This appeal calls on the international community to invest in their health, dignity, and safety to build a future free from fear and violence.”
UNFPA’s 2024 Humanitarian Impact
Despite funding and access challenges, UNFPA reached over 10 million people with reproductive health services and supported 3.6 million individuals with gender-based violence programs in 59 countries. The agency equipped 3,500 health facilities, deployed thousands of midwives, and established 1,600 safe spaces for women and girls.
Strengthening Local Responses and Preparedness in 2025
UNFPA plans to direct 43% of humanitarian funding to local and women-led organizations in 2025, up from 35% in 2024. It will also enhance emergency preparedness by prepositioning critical supplies globally for faster response to crises.
Ensuring No Woman Is Left Behind
“Every day, we witness the hardship women and girls endure in neglected crises,” said Shoko Arakaki, Director of UNFPA’s Humanitarian Response Division. “This appeal ensures no one is left behind, no matter how remote or underfunded their circumstances.”
Dr. Kanem added, “Together, we can save lives and provide every woman and girl the chance to live free from harm, even in the toughest situations.”
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