Humanitarian needs have reached an unprecedented level across the region - resulting from escalating conflict and rising food insecurity - exacerbated by the spread of COVID-19.
In 2020, prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, a record high of 44 million people across the region -- 6 million more than in 2019 -- required humanitarian assistance and protection.
Where the global health crisis intersects with conflict, the effects of climate change and chronic vulnerabilities, including weak national health systems, new crises may emerge.
As restrictive measures impact economic activities, food production, flows, markets and livelihoods, food insecurity could double.
Health care facilities in remote or conflict areas lack testing capacities and equipment, limiting their ability to manage a sudden influx of critical cases.