Concern Worldwide reached 30 million people across 26 countries in 2023, Annual Report announces

Concern Worldwide is proud to share the release of the 2023 Annual Report, highlighting their reach of 30 million people across 26 countries. 

Humanitarian needs were at a record high last year, with nearly 120 million people displaced and over 360 million people in need of humanitarian assistance by the end of the year. Against this backdrop, Concern expanded its emergency programs to Yemen to provide critical support to the 21 million people requiring humanitarian assistance following a nine-year conflict. This expansion to Concern’s 26th country of operation marks a milestone as Concern continues to respond to the effects of conflict, climate shocks, and economic instability that fuel extreme hunger and poverty in the most vulnerable communities around the world.  

“Twenty three of the 26 countries where Concern programs are ranked in the top 50 most conflict-affected countries in the world. Moreover, we’re seeing an increase in overlapping crises, from climate shocks to political and economic instability that consistently hits the most vulnerable communities the hardest,” said Colleen Kelly, CEO of Concern Worldwide US. “Despite the challenges, we remain committed to addressing these issues head on and are proud of our impact this year."

Highlights of Concern’s impact include a reach of: 

15.5 million people through 66 emergencies across 20 countries

Following the earthquakes in Türkiye and Northwest Syria that affected over 9 million people, Concern reached just under 250,000 people, working with partner organizations and directly to deliver food vouchers, sleeping mats and blankets, hygiene kits, and by installing water tanks and toilets to ensure access to clean water. 

9 million people through Health and Nutrition programs

In Pakistan, where millions are still recovering from the catastrophic floods in 2022, Concern reached over 670,000 people with water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions, by rehabilitating and installing over 300 hand pumps, with an additional 135 solar-powered systems, and building nearly 750 toilets in schools, health facilities, and households.  

2.3 million people through Livelihoods and Financial Empowerment programs

In Afghanistan, where there are significant challenges due to restrictions on women participating in work and training and prolonged program suspensions, Concern supported 3,502 women in developing and expanding their own agricultural businesses. The program included organizing trade fairs for the businesses and included training on gender equality for both men and women in the community. 

1.1 million people through Education programs

Following the outbreak of conflict and political unrest last year in Niger, Concern supported 95,000 children, adolescents, and teachers to continue their education despite disruptions and school closures. The program targeted 299 formal and 118 non-formal primary schools through building and improving school classrooms, providing education kits, and training teachers. Concern also partnered with local partners and the Ministry of Education to pilot a program that established audio lessons and learning clubs for children to meet and learn together, with the supervision of a facilitator, in areas where there is little to no access to in-person schooling.  

2.3 million people through Integrated programs

The Democratic Republic of Congo faced a significant deterioration in security in 2023, leading to an additional 2.8 million people to flee their homes. Concern is working with displaced communities to develop programming that bridges the gap between emergency response and development to mitigate the prolonged effects of displacement. In collaboration with local partners, the program combines livelihoods, water, sanitation, gender equality, protection, and education projects to reach over 136,600 people. A final evaluation of the program showed that 96% of households continued to practice their new livelihoods, and nearly 75% are able to meet most of their basic needs.  

“We are deeply grateful to Concern’s supporters, staff, institutional donors, and local partners who allow us to lead the charge in moving closer to a world free of fear, poverty, and oppression,” said Colleen Kelly.