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A project by Office for Foreign Affairs

Humanitarian Assistance by the ICRC in Somalia

The people of Somalia continue to be affected by armed conflict, displacement and recurring climate shocks. Ongoing violence, failed rainy seasons, water scarcity and high food prices have severely undermined the livelihoods of many families. At the same time, food insecurity, malnutrition and health risks are increasing.

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been present in Somalia since 1982. Its neutrality, impartiality and independence enable it to reach remote and conflict-affected areas. Working together with the Somali Red Crescent Society, the ICRC combines protection activities with emergency assistance and support for essential services.

The ICRC engages in confidential dialogue with authorities and weapon bearers, visits detainees, restores family links and supports efforts to trace missing persons. Households affected by conflict receive food assistance, cash support and aid for agricultural production and livelihood recovery. In addition, the ICRC supports healthcare facilities, hospitals and rehabilitation centres, while improving access to water and sanitation services.

Through its contributions in 2024 and 2026, Liechtenstein supports the ICRC’s life-saving work and helps ensure that particularly vulnerable people can be reached even in challenging security conditions.

Project goals

Improve the protection of people affected by armed conflict.

Promote respect for international humanitarian law.

Improve the treatment and conditions of people in detention.

Restore family links and support efforts to clarify cases of missing persons.

Improve access to food, healthcare and rehabilitation services.

Ensure access to safe water and sanitation.

Strengthen the livelihoods of conflict-affected households.

Strengthen the capacity of the Somali Red Crescent Society.

Special features of the project

Working together with the Somali Red Crescent Society, the ICRC is able to reach people in remote areas and along conflict lines. Somalia is among the ICRC’s most severely underfunded operations.

Project facts

Country and region:

Somalia

Project duration:

2024-2026

Total amount:

CHF 200'000

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