Click above to (re)watch this high-level panel of leading experts from the private sector, the UN and the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement – all moderated by Ulrika Modéer, Secretary General, Swedish Red Cross. The panel examines four pathways for humanitarian actors in blended finance: Enabling, Convening, Advising, and Implementing, draws on insights from real life experiences and identifys new pipeline opportunities.
In 2024, 47% of humanitarian needs went unfunded. With climate change and conflict intensifying pressures – especially in the water sector – and donors retreating, looking beyond grants is no longer optional. As 80% of humanitarian needs are recurrent and protracted, there is a critical opportunity to shift funding burdens toward public-private investments.
The World Water Week 2025 focused on addressing the interlinked emergencies of climate change, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. It emphasised both mitigation and adaptation alongside the broader goal of enhancing resilience. The event explored the entire water cycle, from freshwater to oceans, and highlighted the importance of protecting natural ecosystems that are essential for climate stability and biodiversity. Equity and climate justice were central to the discussions, ensuring that vulnerable communities are not left behind in the global response to climate change.
