2024 - A year to continue to tackle extreme poverty

Shahinaz* and her grandsons sit in their tent at a camp in north-west Syria following the 2023 earthquakes. Photo: Karam Al-Masri/Arete/DEC

News3 January 2024Danny Harvey

Last year, we saw millions more vulnerable people significantly impacted by conflict, climate-related crises and food insecurity, against a backdrop of reduced humanitarian assistance due to critical funding gaps.

As the escalation of conflict in Ukraine approaches its third year, affected families still require help with shelter, psychosocial support and livelihoods. Major conflict in Sudan, which began in April, saw Concern responding with tonnes of essential supplies to reach millions of people displaced by the violence.

The worst drought in 40 years across East Africa finally ended but the heavy rains brought with them severe flooding, further affecting millions of people who were already food insecure. And earthquakes in Turkiye and Syria tragically claimed thousands of lives with many more people left homeless.

But last year also brought transformative change. In addition to the emergencies we responded to, we also pushed ahead with our long-term programmes - working alongside communities to secure livelihoods, increase access to education, address gender inequalities and build sustainable solutions in response to the climate crisis.

As we look forward to our work this year, Concern is committed to working together with the millions of people living in extreme poverty to transform their lives, reaching those in emergency situations with essential support, and advocating for change to policies and practices to make a positive and sustainable difference for the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We could not do this without Concern supporters – generous donors, volunteers, those who sign petitions, shake buckets and run marathons - you’re all vital in the fight to end extreme poverty – thank you.

Danny Harvey, Executive Director, Concern Worldwide UK