Around the world, many nations continue to suffer from crises and political conflicts that have left deep scars on human societies. The devastation in Gaza, Sudan, Ukraine, and other regions has resulted in widespread displacement, destruction of homes and infrastructure, and severe environmental damage. The toll on human life—both physical and psychological—is immense, particularly for the most vulnerable. These effects will not only shape the present but will have long-term consequences for generations to come.
The scale of these crises is alarming. Millions of children are forced to live in war zones or flee their homes, becoming refugees in harsh conditions. In addition to armed conflicts, natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, droughts, and wildfires continue to displace people and destroy livelihoods. According to the United Nations' Global Humanitarian Overview 2025, these crises have resulted in declining vaccination rates, deteriorating education systems, rising maternal mortality, and worsening food shortages.
The UN estimates that in 2025, around 305 million people worldwide will urgently need humanitarian assistance and protection. Sudan alone accounts for 35 per cent of those in need, while the Middle East and North Africa region has 59 million people requiring aid, including 33 million in Syria, Palestine, and Lebanon. With global conflicts escalating, 2024 was already one of the deadliest years for civilians in modern history, and 2025 could be even worse unless urgent action is taken.
Political conflicts have led to mass displacement, worsening food and healthcare shortages, and a rise in humanitarian crises. More than 280 million people struggle daily to access sufficient food, as war-torn communities are unable to sustain agricultural production. Violations of international humanitarian laws, especially against women and children, have further exacerbated suffering, highlighting the urgent need for global intervention and accountability.
Another major challenge is the growing climate crisis. The world has now surpassed the critical 1.5°C global temperature increase, triggering more frequent and severe natural disasters. The UN reports that 2024 was the hottest year ever recorded, leading to the displacement of 26.4 million people due to extreme weather events like droughts and hurricanes. These environmental catastrophes are intensifying food insecurity and making it even harder for affected communities to rebuild.
Economic struggles, political instability, and environmental disasters all contribute to human suffering, making it essential to strengthen humanitarian efforts worldwide. Protecting human rights, ensuring access to essential resources, and fostering a culture of peace and cooperation must be global priorities. Every country has a responsibility to contribute to humanitarian work, as we all share this world and its challenges.
The annual International Day of Human Fraternity on 4 February serves as a reminder of the importance of humanitarian action. It promotes tolerance, dialogue, and cooperation while advocating for human rights and social solidarity. This day is a call to reject war and violence, encouraging conflict resolution through understanding and peaceful negotiation.
While global crises dominate the headlines, acts of humanitarianism also shine through. Many nations have stepped up, condemning wars, advocating for peace, and providing aid to those in need. The suffering in Palestine, for example, has drawn international support, with many countries offering financial and medical assistance to alleviate hardship.
Among these nations is Oman, which has consistently upheld the values of peace, dialogue, and humanitarian support. The country has taken a firm stance against violence, strongly condemning attacks in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Sudan. Oman’s foreign policy is rooted in diplomacy, good relations, and a commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
Oman has played a key role in mediating regional conflicts, including efforts to resolve the Yemeni crisis and facilitate negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme. Beyond diplomacy, the nation actively supports humanitarian causes, providing food, medical supplies, and aid to disaster-stricken regions. The Omani Charitable Organization has extended its reach to Palestine, Yemen, Syria, and Africa, embodying the principles of human fraternity and solidarity.
These values are deeply embedded in Omani society. Whenever humanitarian appeals arise, Omanis respond with generosity and a sense of shared responsibility. This culture of giving is not just a government policy but a national ethos that reflects the country’s commitment to peace, cooperation, and understanding.
Oman’s approach to humanitarian work serves as a global example. Its steadfast commitment to supporting those in need, promoting peace, and advocating for dialogue demonstrates a model that other nations can follow. In a world fraught with conflict and division, it is vital to uphold and strengthen these principles.
As global citizens, we all have a role to play in humanitarian efforts—not only through financial aid but also by raising awareness, fostering understanding, and promoting peace. Oman’s legacy of diplomacy and compassion reminds us that unity and solidarity are essential in building a better future for all.
The writer is a researcher specialising in semiotics and a member of the State Council
Translated by Badr al Dhafari
The original version of this article was published in Oman Arabic newspaper on February 1, 2025
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