Humanitarian reform in 2025: why this time has to be different

Humanitarian reform has regained urgency in 2025 amid funding shortfalls, rising global needs, and a deepening crisis of legitimacy. Unlike past efforts, today's reform imperative - shaped by geo-political shifts and a retreat of traditional Western support - is both structural and existential. It demands a move away from a top-down and institution-centric model to a networked humanitarian ecosystem - one that shares responsibility more equitably, mobilises a broad range of responders, empowers local actors, and focuses squarely on achieving better outcomes for affected populations. This shift requires a review of traditional roles and responsibilities and new tools to measure impact, along with revised accountability mechanisms. This crucial political moment presents a rare opportunity to reimagine global solidarity - decentralising power, embracing geopolitical change, and putting people and communities at the centre.