8 Countries Facing Major Crises in 2025
The world is currently witnessing an alarming number of crises, ranging from armed conflicts and political instability to severe economic downturns and climate-related disasters. Many nations are grappling with humanitarian emergencies that have displaced millions, destroyed economies, and left populations in dire need of assistance. As of 2025, several countries are at the forefront of these crises, with their people enduring extreme hardship due to war, food insecurity, and natural calamities.
1. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Escalating Conflict and Health Crisis
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been a hotspot of conflict for decades, but in 2025, the situation has worsened significantly. The resurgence of the M23 rebel group in the eastern provinces has led to widespread displacement and violence. The fighting has forced hospitals to shut down, leaving thousands without access to medical care. In addition to the ongoing conflict, a severe outbreak of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) has spread across the country, exacerbating an already fragile health system.
The humanitarian situation is dire, with over 5 million people displaced internally, making DRC one of the worst displacement crises in the world. The country’s infrastructure is in shambles, and international aid organizations struggle to provide relief due to the increasing violence. The economic downturn, coupled with the lack of governance, has made it nearly impossible for Congolese citizens to access basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare.
2. Haiti – Political Instability and Gang Violence
Haiti remains one of the most fragile nations in the Western Hemisphere. The country has been facing chronic instability due to political turmoil, gang-related violence, and economic collapse. In 2025, the situation has deteriorated further, with armed gangs controlling significant portions of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and other key cities. This has led to a surge in violent crime, kidnappings, and mass displacement.
As the government struggles to maintain order, over 5 million Haitians require urgent humanitarian assistance. Food insecurity is at an all-time high, with nearly half of the population unable to meet their daily nutritional needs. In addition, Haiti has been battling a severe cholera outbreak, which has disproportionately affected children. Limited access to clean water and sanitation has worsened the crisis, leading to a sharp rise in preventable diseases. The country’s future remains uncertain as international interventions have had limited success in restoring stability.
3. Mozambique – Conflict and Climate Disasters
Mozambique has been suffering from a dual crisis—an armed insurgency in the northern region of Cabo Delgado and devastating climate-related disasters. Since 2017, the conflict in Cabo Delgado has led to the displacement of nearly 1.7 million people. Armed extremist groups continue to launch attacks on villages, forcing civilians to flee their homes.
In addition to conflict, Mozambique is facing severe weather events, including cyclones and droughts, which have destroyed agricultural lands. The country, heavily reliant on farming, is now seeing record levels of food insecurity. An estimated 2.78 million people are facing acute food shortages, and humanitarian agencies are struggling to provide sufficient aid. The combination of war and natural disasters has left Mozambique in one of the worst humanitarian situations in the world.
4. Cameroon – Separatist Conflict and Food Insecurity
Cameroon is facing one of the least reported but devastating crises in Africa. The conflict between government forces and separatist groups in the Anglophone regions has been ongoing since 2016. In 2025, the violence continues to escalate, with frequent attacks on civilians, schools, and health facilities. Over a million people have been displaced due to the fighting, and half of them are children.
The crisis has also led to widespread food insecurity. With limited access to farmland and disrupted supply chains, many families struggle to find food. The humanitarian response remains underfunded, making it difficult for aid organizations to reach those in need. At the same time, Cameroon is dealing with an influx of refugees from neighboring Nigeria and the Central African Republic, further straining its resources.
5. Malawi – Devastating Drought and Food Crisis
Malawi is currently facing its worst drought in a century, driven by the El Niño weather phenomenon. The drought has had catastrophic effects on agriculture, destroying crops and leaving millions on the brink of starvation. An estimated 6.1 million people require immediate assistance to survive.
With 44% of farmland affected, food prices have soared, making basic nutrition unaffordable for many families. The country’s economy, largely dependent on agriculture, is in freefall, exacerbating poverty and unemployment. The government and international agencies are working to mitigate the crisis, but resources remain insufficient. Malawi’s crisis serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of climate change on vulnerable nations.
6. South Sudan – Conflict, Floods, and Hunger
South Sudan remains one of the most challenging humanitarian crises in the world. Despite the 2018 peace agreement, conflicts between armed factions persist, leading to mass displacement and instability. In 2025, the situation has worsened, with an estimated 13.6 million people—nearly 90% of the population—requiring humanitarian aid.
In addition to conflict, severe flooding has destroyed homes, farmland, and infrastructure, making it difficult for people to access food and clean water. Malnutrition rates are alarmingly high, and children are the most affected. The country’s healthcare system is barely functional, and the lack of medical supplies makes it impossible to treat common diseases. Without urgent international intervention, South Sudan risks plunging further into chaos.
7. Burkina Faso – Terrorism and Humanitarian Catastrophe
Burkina Faso has become one of the most unstable countries in West Africa due to the rapid spread of armed extremist groups. Groups such as the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) and Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) have taken control of vast territories, cutting off millions from humanitarian aid.
Nearly 40 towns are under siege, with residents unable to access food, medical care, or clean water. More than 2 million people are displaced, and the situation continues to deteriorate. The education sector has also suffered immensely, with schools being shut down due to security threats. With the government struggling to maintain control, Burkina Faso remains one of the most dangerous places to live in 2025.
8. Yemen – Prolonged War and Starvation
Yemen remains one of the most tragic humanitarian crises of the 21st century. After nearly a decade of war, the country is still in turmoil. The conflict between the Houthi rebels and the Saudi-backed government has devastated Yemen’s economy, infrastructure, and food supply.
As of 2025, over 18 million Yemenis require humanitarian aid, with malnutrition rates among children reaching alarming levels. Famine is a constant threat, and basic medical services are virtually non-existent. The ongoing war has also led to widespread displacement, with millions living in refugee camps under dire conditions. The situation in Yemen continues to be one of the worst humanitarian disasters in modern history Facing Major Crises in 2025
The world is currently witnessing an alarming number of crises, ranging from armed conflicts and political instability to severe economic downturns and climate-related disasters. Many nations are grappling with humanitarian emergencies that have displaced millions, destroyed economies, and left populations in dire need of assistance. As of 2025, several countries are at the forefront of these crises, with their people enduring extreme hardship due to war, food insecurity, and natural calamities.
The Urgent Need for Action
These eight countries are currently facing some of the most severe crises in the world. Conflicts, economic downturns, climate-related disasters, and political instability have created humanitarian emergencies that demand urgent attention. The international community must act swiftly to provide aid, diplomatic solutions, and long-term strategies to stabilize these nations.
Failure to address these crises will only lead to more suffering, displacement, and regional instability. Governments, NGOs, and humanitarian agencies must work together to ensure that millions of people receive the support they need to survive and rebuild their lives.
As 2025 unfolds, the world must not turn a blind eye to these unfolding tragedies. The lives of millions depend on global solidarity, humanitarian aid, and diplomatic efforts to bring peace and stability to these crisis-stricken nations.