ICRC Cuts Jobs, Faces $2.23B Aid Shortfall in 2026

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) will reduce its 2026 budget by 17% to 1.8 billion Swiss francs ($2.23 billion), announcing plans to cut 2,900 jobs globally. This move highlights the growing strain on humanitarian aid as donors increasingly focus on defense spending amid multiple global conflicts.

The Geneva-based organization, which operates in over 90 countries, has long been a frontline responder in crisis zones, offering humanitarian assistance ranging from emergency aid to prisoner visits and conflict mediation. Its recent efforts included transferring hostages from Gaza and supporting Palestinian detainees under the October ceasefire.

The planned staff reductions amount to roughly 15% of its workforce of 18,500. About one-third of the job cuts will come from voluntary departures or leaving vacant posts unfilled. The decision follows earlier cost-saving measures taken in 2023 as aid organizations worldwide struggle to cope with unprecedented demand against shrinking budgets.

Analysts note that global humanitarian funding is under pressure as the world’s top donor nations, including the United States, pivot towards national security and defense priorities, leaving traditional aid programs with significant shortfalls. Humanitarian groups are being forced to make difficult choices about which regions and populations receive support, creating tough trade-offs in life-saving operations.

The ICRC’s adjustments underscore the growing challenges faced by aid agencies operating in war-torn regions, where the need for neutral humanitarian action is critical, yet resources are increasingly constrained.