LIPPA at the European Humanitarian Forum 2025: Bridging Local Action and Global Impact
In May 2025, LIPPA was honored to participate in the European Humanitarian Forum (EHF) in Brussels—a global gathering held amid escalating humanitarian needs, climate emergencies, and conflicts affecting more than 305 million people worldwide. This year’s edition of EHF focused on two critical themes: the integrated approach to fragility and humanitarian diplomacy. Both are closely aligned with LIPPA’s mission of community-rooted humanitarian work in some of the world’s most vulnerable areas.
Amplifying Local Voices on a Global Stage
At the Forum, EU leaders, humanitarian agencies, local NGOs, and private sector partners came together to explore lasting solutions to today’s complex crises. LIPPA brought to the table its frontline experience from Gaza, Turkey, Ukraine, and Equatorial Africa, highlighting the vital role that local volunteers play in building resilience and delivering aid in high-risk zones.
Through engaging in panel discussions and humanitarian talks, we emphasized the importance of supporting communities not just in emergencies, but through long-term, locally led solutions. We echoed a message that was heard often during the Forum: change must begin with those closest to the crisis.
Why the Forum Matters for LIPPA
Several key takeaways from EHF 2025 are already shaping our strategic direction:
- Integrated Response is the Future
The call for breaking down silos between humanitarian aid, development, and peacebuilding was clear. For LIPPA, this validated our approach of combining emergency health support with long-term education and community care programs. - Humanitarian Diplomacy Must Be Strengthened
Forum speakers underscored the urgency of protecting humanitarian space, ensuring aid access, and safeguarding frontline workers. LIPPA shared real-world experiences from our teams on the ground, often operating in areas with limited access and significant risk. - Localization is More Than a Buzzword
There was a strong push to shift power and resources to local actors. At LIPPA, this is already standard practice. Our volunteers come from the very communities they serve. They understand local needs deeply, speak the language, and earn the trust that is often out of reach for larger institutions. - Funding Needs to Follow Purpose
While the EU announced a €2.3 billion pledge toward humanitarian aid, LIPPA continues to advocate for flexible, long-term funding mechanisms that support grassroots organizations and help build sustainable change.
Looking Ahead
Our presence at EHF 2025 wasn’t just about sharing stories—it was about building partnerships, challenging the status quo, and reaffirming our belief in people-powered progress. Whether it’s a refugee child in a Turkish football camp or a local medic in a warzone, the message is the same: the people closest to the crisis must be central to the solution.
As we expand our work in regions like Equatorial Africa and deepen our impact in Gaza and Ukraine, we take with us the lessons and momentum gained at this Forum. LIPPA remains committed to showing up, listening, and standing with local heroes who bring hope and healing to places the world often forgets.
Because true humanitarian impact begins not with grand gestures, but with consistent presence, respect, and the quiet power of working side by side.
