For many individuals relying on humanitarian aid, 2024 has proven to be one of the most challenging years. Recent estimates from the UN indicate that around 120 million people were displaced by violence and disaster in 2023, a worrying figure that has doubled over the past decade. Additionally, 300 million people are in urgent humanitarian need due to escalating conflicts and the effects of climate change. There has been a troubling stagnation or decline in progress towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in over half of the world’s fragile nations, where children born today face a tenfold greater chance of living in poverty compared to those born in stable regions.
Such alarming statistics underscore the need for a new wave of humanitarian efforts, particularly those that leverage digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI). After years of discussion about the risks and rewards of AI, the humanitarian sector is on the verge of harnessing its potential for real impact in 2025.
When applied properly, AI can revolutionize humanitarian aid by enhancing its scale, speed, reach, and cost-effectiveness. The International Rescue Committee (IRC), along with its research and innovation lab, Airbel, is actively exploring different AI applications in humanitarian programming across three vital areas: information dissemination, education, and climate resilience, benefiting from promising public-private partnerships.
One significant initiative is the global information project called Signpost, which provides timely and accurate information to refugees seeking refuge from conflict. Supported by Google.org, IRC, Cisco Foundation, Zendesk, and Tech for Refugees, Signpost leverages digital platforms and social media to combat misinformation and connect displaced individuals to essential services and safety. As part of its development, Signpost is establishing an “AI prototyping lab” to test and evaluate the use of Generative AI within the humanitarian sector.
AI technologies are also being considered to enhance personalized education for the 224 million children impacted by crises globally. A notable effort involves developing AI models that can communicate in African languages, an area where current AI tools fall short. Initiatives like Lelapa AI are working to create new languages and improve AI accessibility in Africa. Additionally, OpenAI has started offering discounted access to ChatGPT for nonprofits, further enhancing educational resources in crisis situations.
Furthermore, AI is being employed to protect communities from the adverse effects of extreme weather. Google has introduced an AI-powered Flood Hub, which can forecast flooding in 80 countries, and it collaborates with NGOs and the UN to develop machine learning systems that provide early warnings and cash transfers prior to climate disasters.
Yuval Noah Harari, the noted Israeli scholar and historian, has characterized AI as both the most dangerous and potentially beneficial technology we’ve created. Moving forward into 2025, it is crucial that these advancements in AI not only benefit the privileged but also support and uplift the most marginalized and vulnerable populations around the globe.
