KUWAIT CITY, Oct 8: The State of Kuwait has earned recognition as a “superpower” in humanitarian aid and diplomacy, with UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, praising its longstanding commitment to global humanitarian efforts.

In a lecture at Kuwait’s Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute on Tuesday, Fletcher lauded Kuwait’s crucial partnership with the United Nations and its consistent adherence to humanitarian principles. The lecture, titled "Humanitarian Action in a Shifting Global Landscape: Challenges, Opportunities and Kuwait’s Leadership," underscored Kuwait’s pivotal role in shaping global humanitarian efforts, both through state initiatives and its vibrant civil society.

Fletcher, who highlighted Kuwait’s unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and human freedom, said that the country’s record of generosity and diplomatic wisdom continues to inspire the humanitarian community worldwide. He called for strengthened collaboration with Kuwait, emphasizing the importance of ensuring humanitarian action remains principled, effective, and efficient.

"The UN needs to continue partnering with Kuwait, a humanitarian superpower, to build on its strengths in humanitarian and development assistance," Fletcher stated, expressing gratitude for the Foreign Ministry-led relationship that has contributed to saving countless lives globally over the years.

Fletcher also praised the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, describing its support as reflective of Kuwait's dual approach to addressing both immediate humanitarian needs and long-term resilience. He acknowledged Kuwait’s significant role in fostering partnerships with NGOs and the private sector, noting that Kuwait stands among the world’s largest per-capita humanitarian donors.

"The great legacy of the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah continues to inspire humanitarian action worldwide," Fletcher said, referencing the late Amir’s influential leadership in the global humanitarian arena.

The UN humanitarian chief also highlighted Kuwait’s steadfast position on the ongoing Gaza crisis. "Kuwait was among the first nations to call for an unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and has continued to advocate for the protection of civilians and unhindered access to humanitarian aid," Fletcher stated, applauding Kuwait’s advocacy for human rights amid the escalating conflict.

On the broader state of global humanitarian efforts, Fletcher acknowledged the increasing difficulties faced by the sector. With more than 300 million people in need of aid worldwide, Fletcher referred to last year as the deadliest on record for humanitarian workers, with over 300 killed in the line of duty. He expressed concerns that 2025 could surpass this tragic toll.

As part of the “Humanitarian Reset” initiative, Fletcher outlined plans for sector-wide reform, with a focus on improving agility, efficiency, and innovation. He stressed the critical need for technology and artificial intelligence to enhance supply chain management and to empower local communities to define life-saving priorities more clearly. Fletcher also emphasized the UN’s goal of saving 114 million lives next year, an effort that could be funded by just 1% of global military spending.

In response to Fletcher’s remarks, Fawaz Al-Mazrouei, Director General of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS), told KUNA that the UN’s recognition reflects Kuwait’s deep-rooted values and national identity as a humanitarian leader. "Fletcher’s words affirm that humanitarian action is not merely a policy of the state but a part of Kuwait’s very fabric," Al-Mazrouei said, adding that Kuwait’s role in the global humanitarian landscape continues to be guided by the country’s wise leadership.

Al-Mazrouei acknowledged the significant challenges highlighted by Fletcher, including underfunding and the targeting of aid workers. These challenges mirror those faced daily by KRCS teams working in some of the world’s most difficult humanitarian crises. "Kuwait will always remain at the forefront of nations extending bridges of hope to those in need," he said.

He further emphasized the importance of true partnerships between international organizations and grassroots humanitarian actors like the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, underscoring KRCS's ongoing commitment to supporting the UN in addressing global crises and continuing Kuwait’s humanitarian legacy.

Kuwait’s role in shaping global humanitarian policy and action remains central to its national identity and its ongoing diplomatic and humanitarian endeavors on the world stage.