The United Nations and humanitarian aid

Abstract

The United Nations has devoted considerable efforts to humanitarian activities through the goals and activities of agencies, funds and programs. When a disaster occurs, particular attention is given to the most vulnerable groups such as children, women, older people and refugees. This article introduces the agencies responsible for humanitarian aids in the United Nations system and their activities. Although there is a division in the functions of different agencies with specific goals and subjects, it is necessary to appoint a coordination agency to ensure the aid is supplied fast, effectively and consistently to the right subjects and for the right demands. This is the role and activities of OCHA (Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs). On the basis of OCHA's activities, the article evaluates the overall humanitarian activities of the United Nations and points out future challenges.