Protect Humanitarian Assistance for Refugees
What You Can Do to Protect Refugee Funding in 2026
The impacts of war, violence, and displacement around the world are immense, and U.S. global humanitarian assistance plays a critical role in supporting refugees and other forcibly displaced people with life-saving services. JRS/USA is calling on advocates to urge Congress and the Administration to fully fund the International Humanitarian Assistance (IHA) account at approximately $8.7 billion (similar to FY 2024 levels). We also urge $200 million for the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance (ERMA) account — $100 million above the level in the existing FY26 appropriations bill — to ensure the United States can respond swiftly to emerging humanitarian crises.
Why This Matters
International humanitarian assistance funds support essential services that help displaced people survive and rebuild their lives. These programs enable education, shelter, food, healthcare, mental health support, and protection—often in the most extreme and under-resourced contexts. JRS/USA’s work in more than 55 countries demonstrates the life-saving impact of these funds and the grave consequences when they are cut.
For example, in Sudan, more than 13 million people have fled their homes since 2023, with millions seeking safety in neighboring countries amid one of the world’s most severe crises. In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, 3.8 million people remain internally displaced due to persistent conflict. Learn more.
U.S. leadership in global humanitarian aid reaffirms our nation’s commitment to human dignity, shared responsibility, and international stability. Restoring and sustaining these funds ensures that displaced communities are not forgotten and that vital services reach those who need them most.
What You Can Do
Take action today by sending a letter to your elected officials.
- Share this alert with your networks to amplify the call.
- Join JRS/USA’s advocacy community to stay informed on future alerts. (Link forthcoming)
Sign up for the 2026 JRS/USA Advocacy Day
Register for Advocacy Day
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Humanitarian Assistance (IHA) account?
The International Humanitarian Assistance (IHA) account combines what were previously known as the International Disaster Assistance (IDA) and Migration and Refugee Assistance (MRA) accounts. It funds humanitarian aid including emergency relief, refugee support, and disaster response around the world.
Why should IHA be funded at $8.7 billion?
Funding at roughly fiscal year 2024 levels reflects the scale of global displacement and the continuing need for U.S. humanitarian leadership. After sharp cuts in 2025, advocates and service providers alike see increased gaps in critical services.
What is the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance (ERMA) account?
The Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance (ERMA) account provides flexible funding that allows the United States to respond swiftly to unexpected and urgent refugee and migration crises that arise during the year. An additional $100 million helps ensure readiness for new emergencies.
Why does this funding matter now?
Millions of people are forcibly displaced due to conflict, violence, and persecution. Humanitarian assistance helps meet immediate needs and supports pathways to safety, dignity, and long-term recovery. Without robust funding, vital programs—including education, protection, health, and psychosocial support—face disruption or closure.
What can ordinary people do to help?
Your voice matters. You can contact your members of Congress and urge them to protect and strengthen funding for IHA and ERMA so that humanitarian assistance for refugees and displaced people remains a priority.
