Supporting One Another in the Times of Chaos

The past few weeks have been incredibly busy and, at times, overwhelming. The dramatic shifts in the US government’s stance on funding international aid, particularly humanitarian aid, are having a devastating and far-reaching impact on the most vulnerable communities worldwide. These abrupt policy changes are not only endangering lives and safety but also shaking the very foundations of international cooperation and stability.

The consequences for those who rely on humanitarian aid are profound. Millions of people who depend on life-saving assistance now find themselves at even greater risk. Whether it is food security, medical aid, shelter, or protection services, the sudden withdrawal or reduction of funding has immediate and catastrophic effects. Refugees, internally displaced people, and communities affected by conflict and natural disasters are left without essential support. The organisations working on the ground are forced to make impossible decisions—who to help and who to leave behind.

In Venezuela, the situation is particularly dire. With an already fragile humanitarian landscape, any disruption in aid poses immense challenges. Alongside my colleagues from various humanitarian organisations, we are working tirelessly to continue our programmes while also seeking ways to mitigate the impacts of these new policies. The pressure is immense, and the stakes are high. We are witnessing increased malnutrition, worsening health crises, and heightened vulnerability among displaced populations. Additionally, the lack of funding means that crucial health and education programmes for children, nutritional support, and access to clean water are all at risk of being severely cut or discontinued. The impact will not only be immediate but will also have long-term consequences, particularly for communities already suffering from economic instability and displacement.

The repercussions of these policy shifts are not confined to Venezuela. In Gaza, where an already dire humanitarian crisis has been exacerbated by ongoing conflict and blockade, cuts in funding mean further shortages in essential medical supplies, food assistance, and shelter support. Hospitals, already operating under extreme duress, now face even greater challenges in treating the wounded and sick. The situation continues to deteriorate, leaving civilians with little hope for immediate relief.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, decades of conflict have led to one of the world’s most prolonged humanitarian crises. The sudden reduction in aid threatens vital health services, particularly in areas affected by ongoing violence and displacement. The disruption of food and nutrition programmes could worsen already alarming levels of malnutrition, particularly among children. Meanwhile, those seeking refuge from armed groups find themselves with even fewer resources to survive.

Sudan, which has been struggling with political instability and an ongoing humanitarian emergency, is also facing a worsening crisis due to funding cuts. The fragile peace agreements in certain regions are at risk of collapse as essential humanitarian interventions, including food distribution and medical services, become more uncertain. The potential for renewed displacement and worsening famine conditions is a very real and immediate concern.

In Afghanistan, where humanitarian needs have skyrocketed following the Taliban’s return to power, the withdrawal of international assistance places millions of people at even greater risk. The country has already suffered from economic collapse, with aid agencies acting as a critical lifeline for millions. Cuts in funding are likely to impact emergency healthcare, food distribution, and education support, with women and children bearing the brunt of the consequences.

Bangladesh, which hosts nearly one million Rohingya refugees in overcrowded camps, also faces a humanitarian setback. The Rohingya crisis remains one of the most protracted refugee situations in the world, and a reduction in funding will further strain the already limited resources available for shelter, healthcare, and food assistance. Without continued support, the likelihood of increased suffering, disease outbreaks, and malnutrition among the refugee population rises significantly.

Yet, the stress extends beyond operational concerns. Many of my colleagues—both national and international staff—are losing their jobs and livelihoods. The loss of funding means programme closures, layoffs, and reduced capacity to deliver aid. For many, especially those from countries with limited job opportunities, the consequences are devastating. It is incredibly disheartening to see how the decisions of a few policymakers can so rapidly dismantle livelihoods and throw entire communities into deeper uncertainty.

But the impact goes beyond aid programmes and job losses. The new US policies are reshaping global alliances and undermining international structures. Economic hostilities towards Canada, China, Mexico, and the EU, alongside territorial threats towards Canada, Panama, and Greenland, further destabilise global security. Threats towards Palestine, Ukraine, and European allies, with potential repercussions in Asia and Africa, add to the sense of an impending crisis. Looking at the scale of these developments, one cannot help but wonder whether we are inching closer to World War III.

In times like these, it is difficult not to feel powerless. Grand political manoeuvres are beyond our control. Yet, in all of this, we do have a role to play. Perhaps now more than ever, simple acts of kindness, solidarity, and humanity matter. Looking after one another, offering a helping hand, standing up to hatred and intolerance—these actions carry weight. As we move towards an uncertain future, perhaps there is still an opportunity to hold onto something good, to strengthen our bonds, and to persist in making the world a little better in whatever ways we can.

Through all the chaos, I have found some solace in writing. I have recently finished revamping my photo albums, adding more detailed descriptions and organising my memories in a more structured way. You can find the links to all my albums here: https://www.romanmajcher.eu/blog-2/files/7d9a8e4ebb1ee5b2dbdf379b7235313b-141.html. This process has been a step towards something bigger—hopefully, the beginning of writing a memoir or a book. The stories in these albums will serve as the foundation, helping me to be more systematic in my recollections and ensuring that important moments are not lost.

Despite the challenges, there are still things to look forward to. Soon, I will be heading to Spain for one-week break. Madrid will be my main base, where I will spend time with Leo, as well as Marta and her family. If all goes well, we are also hoping to travel to Sevilla—a city I have long wanted to visit. The anticipation of travel, even if only for a short period, is a source of joy amidst the chaos.

Difficult times lie ahead, but we must keep trying. Perhaps, in the face of adversity, there is still a chance for resilience, for new beginnings, and for hope.