Foreign Affairs launches its new humanitarian strategy, rooted in principles and future-oriented

As stated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation Maxime Prévot, "The humanitarian world is at a turning point. Prolonged crises, climate disasters, and geopolitical fragmentation are no longer anomalies: they have become the norm. In this context, this new strategy is not just an update, it aims to embody an ambition: to rethink humanitarian aid so that it is fairer and more effective."

A renewed commitment

At its core, the strategy reaffirms Belgium’s adherence to the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, and respect for international humanitarian law. It is designed to be people-centered, ensuring that the populations affected by crises play an active role. By addressing key challenges such as protracted crises, a shrinking humanitarian space, and the politicisation of aid, Belgium positions itself as a steadfast advocate for principled humanitarian action.

What’s new

This strategy introduces several important shifts. Foreign Affairs is moving towards a strategic approach instead of a thematic one. Not only will we finance humanitarian aid, but we will actively engage through humanitarian diplomacy. Localisation, ethical humanitarian aid and protection become central pillars of our strategy. Finally, Belgium commits to flexible, multi-year funding, enabling rapid and tailored responses to evolving crises.

Global objective

Through these priorities, Belgium aims to save lives, alleviate suffering, and protect human dignity in crises caused by natural disasters or conflicts, while strengthening community resilience.

Looking ahead together

As such, Heidy Rombouts, Director General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid, emphasises that "Belgium is a recognised humanitarian donor, but also an actor that carries strong messages on respect for international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians and humanitarian access. This strategy reflects the work of the Directorate-General for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Aid and all the teams who, every day, work to strengthen the effectiveness, coherence and impact of our action.”

Foreign Affairs will therefore relentlessly translate this vision into action and calls on its partners and stakeholders to join in implementing this vision for principled, inclusive, and effective humanitarian aid. Together, as a Team, we can safeguard humanitarian space and deliver assistance where it is needed most.

Background Information: Belgium’s Humanitarian Priorities

• Rapid and Flexible Crisis Response: Agile capacity for acute and forgotten crises; quality funding through flexible mechanisms and trusted actors.

• Upholding Humanitarian Principles and International Humanitarian Law: Guarantee access and protect aid workers; promote humanitarian diplomacy.

• Integrated Approach (HDP Nexus): Coherence between humanitarian aid, development, and peacebuilding; address urgent needs and root causes.

• Focus on Regions Near Conflict: Shelter and protection in areas bordering war zones.

• Cross-Cutting Themes: Gender equality, localisation, food security.

• Strengthening International Humanitarian Architecture: Support to multilateral mechanisms (UN, EU) and defending humanitarian principles against political pressures.