Galway donors make a difference in tackling global crisis
Trócaire has asked the people of Galway to return their Lenten Boxes – because a repeat of the more than half a million donated from the county last year will have more effect than ever in some of the poorest places in the world.
That’s because so many countries have cut their aid programme spend – leaving the global humanitarian system facing significant challenges.
Trócaire CEO Seán Farrell says the cuts to humanitarian funding across the world are already having huge impacts in the countries where they work.
“We are seeing catastrophic deficits in terms of what is needed,” he said.
In 2025 the United States, historically the world’s largest humanitarian donor, slashed contributions that accounted for 43% of global government humanitarian funding.
Other countries who have recently announced cuts to their overseas aid budgets include the UK, Germany, Sweden, Belgium, France, Canada and the Netherlands.
Thankfully Ireland has not followed suit – and the Government has indicated that this commitment, through Irish Aid, will continue.
But the overall picture is grim.
We are seeing catastrophic deficits in terms of what is needed
A new study published in medical journal The Lancet estimates that by the end of the decade, up to 22.6 million people could die if the United States and other Western donors continue to slash foreign aid.
“The irony is that at the same time that these cuts are implemented by various countries and are impacting on people caught up in conflict, we are seeing a huge increase in military spending by those same countries,” said Sean Farrell.
“We need to call out this disgraceful state of affairs. Twice as much is being spent on prolonging the conflict in Sudan as is being spent on life-saving humanitarian aid there,” Seán Farrell said.
“We are thankful that Ireland is one country that has maintained its level of overseas aid and the Irish Government has indicated that this commitment will continue. The funds we receive from Irish Aid are incredibly important.
“Moreover the people of Galway have been unflinching in their support. Last year people in the county donated more than €532,000 during Lent and I am asking people right across Galway to return this year’s Trócaire Box Appeal donations as quickly as possible so that we can get the support people need at this precarious time,” he added.
You can make your donation at www.trocaire.org or call 1800 408 408.