The humanitarian system is in deep upheaval: once rooted in a common ethical framework, it now faces fragmented political responsibility, politicization, donor withdrawal, shrinking access, and erosion of humanitarian law. As humanitarian actors abandon those they claimed to help, credibility and legitimacy erode—undermining humanity itself and the system’s original purpose. 

In light of these pressing challenges, the Humanitarian Congress Berlin 2026 – now set for April and from 2026 onward held every spring – will provide a space to confront these dynamics through critical openness, structural self-reflection, and shared accountability. To advance this effort and expand the congress community, we are delighted to welcome Oxfam Germany and The New Humanitarian as new long-term partners alongside Médecins Sans Frontières, Médecins du Monde, and the German Red Cross. 

Under the theme “Humanitarianism(s) in Transition – Between Ideals, Power and Agency”, we will explore how humanitarian action, in its many forms and approaches, can be renewed, reimagined, and strengthened. The Humanitarian Congress Berlin invites experts, practitioners, and critical voices to move beyond routine dialogue and work together on the future of humanitarian action hat truly serves those most impacted.

Save the date: 21 – 22 April 2026