The Brian Lehrer Show IRC on the Countries at Risk in 2026
Dec 16, 2025
David Miliband, President and CEO of the International Rescue Committee, discusses the IRC's critical watchlist of countries facing imminent humanitarian crises. He delves into the implications of cuts in U.S. aid, highlighting projected millions of lives at risk due to funding reductions. Miliband also emphasizes the impact of halted medical supplies, particularly in regions like South Sudan and Afghanistan. The podcast sheds light on the growing role of countries like China in global aid and the urgent needs in crisis zones such as Haiti and Gaza.
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Push Structural Reforms, Not Just Aid
- Recommit to international refugee protections and disrupt networks that profit from violence.
- The IRC's report calls for structural measures beyond emergency relief to reduce future crises.
Half Of Humanitarian Funding Vanished
- Global humanitarian funding fell by roughly 50%, cutting about $12–$13 billion from a $26 billion baseline.
- Miliband warns needs are historicly high while mitigation funding collapses, worsening crises.
Sudanese Refugee Health Program Halted
- A $5 million IRC health program for Sudanese refugees in South Sudan was cut off, halting vital care and nutrition.
- Miliband says roughly 2 million IRC clients lost services after about 50 grants and contracts were stopped.