2026 Emergency Watchlist

The Watchlist 2026 report by the International Rescue Committee (IRC) highlights the deepening intersection of conflict, climate change, and economic instability across 20 crisis-prone countries. It warns of a dangerous divergence: while humanitarian needs are surging—with over 239 million people requiring assistance, catastrophic food insecurity in six countries, and the highest number of active conflicts since World War II—global support systems are in retreat. The report calls for a shift from traditional diplomatic models to more adaptive, inclusive peacebuilding approaches. These include dismantling conflict economies, holding spoilers accountable, and ensuring women’s participation in peace processes, as part of a more resilient and systemic global response.