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Effects of COVID-19 on international organisations, humanitarian action, and human rights

This research explores how international governmental and non-governmental organisations (IGOs and NGOs) responded to the complex humanitarian and human rights challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Author
Sofia Lopes, Katyayni Champawat & Madeleine O. Hosli
Date
03 April 2025
Links
Read the full article here

By examining the roles of organisations such as the UN, UNICEF, UNHCR, ICRC, and Save the Children, the research highlights how these actors addressed both the immediate health crisis and its broader social and economic consequences. Special attention is given to the pandemic’s disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including children, women, refugees, and economically disadvantaged groups.

The research concludes that while the pandemic intensified pre-existing inequalities and disrupted essential services, many IGOs and NGOs demonstrated resilience and innovation. Their efforts underscore the critical need for sustained multilateral cooperation and institutional synergy to protect human rights, strengthen humanitarian aid, and advance global justice in future crises.

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