Yemen

Yemen is facing one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. After more than a decade of conflict, worsened by economic decline and climate shocks, millions are struggling to survive. Today, 22.3 million people, or more than half the population, need humanitarian assistance.

Food insecurity has reached critical levels, with 18.3 million people acutely food insecure, including 1.3 million pregnant and breastfeeding women who face acute malnutrition. Nearly 40 per cent of health facilities have closed or are only partially functioning. Insecurity and access constraints continue to hinder the delivery of life-saving assistance that UNFPA provides, including reproductive health medicines and women-led safe spaces.

Indeed, women and girls bear a disproportionate burden, with sexual and reproductive health services and protection from gender-based violence under acute strain. Among the 5.2 million internally displaced people, members of female-headed households and women and girls with disabilities are particularly vulnerable. Child marriage, human trafficking and survival sex are increasingly prevalent as poverty and hunger push families to their limits.

UNFPA is one of the few providers of reproductive health medicines in Yemen, and leads the coordination and delivery of reproductive health and gender-based violence response services nationwide, supporting women and girls in safe spaces, shelters and specialized mental health centres.

UNFPA also leads the Rapid Response Mechanism, working with partners to mobilize emergency relief for families uprooted by conflict and climate shocks. Essential supplies, safe water and hygiene kits are delivered within 24 to 72 hours of displacement, providing an immediate lifeline and bridging the critical gap until longer-term humanitarian assistance can be sustained.
 

 Updated 9 April 2026