World’s Most Dangerous Countries in 2025: Emergency Watchlist Highlights

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has released its annual Emergency Watchlist for 2025, identifying the world’s most vulnerable countries facing escalating humanitarian crises. The report assesses factors such as conflict, climate change, and political instability, serving as a forecast for areas most likely to experience major emergencies.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Countries in 2025

1. Sudan
   • Key Issues: Civil war between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
   • Impact: Widespread displacement, violations of international law, sexual violence, and attacks on civilians and aid services.
   • Crisis: Largest and fastest-growing humanitarian crisis globally.
2. Myanmar
   • Key Issues: Military rule since 2021, widespread violence, insurgent activity.
   • Impact: Over 3 million displaced, deteriorating health and water systems compounded by natural disasters.
3. Syria
   • Key Issues: Ongoing conflict since 2011, now under rebel control.
   • Impact: 13.8 million displaced, severe poverty, uncertain political future.
4. South Sudan
   • Key Issues: Spillover conflict from Sudan, political instability, severe flooding.
   • Impact: Refugee crisis, economic turmoil, food insecurity.
5. Lebanon
   • Key Issues: Armed conflict between Hezbollah and Israel since 2023.
   • Impact: 1.4 million displaced, fragile ceasefire in place.
6. Burkina Faso
   • Key Issues: Armed clashes involving ISGS and JNIM.
   • Impact: Millions displaced, widespread attacks on hospitals and schools, blocked humanitarian aid.
7. Haiti
   • Key Issues: Gang violence, political instability, natural disasters.
   • Impact: Severe hunger, extreme poverty, and rising crime.
8. Mali
   • Key Issues: Armed conflict involving Malian military, Wagner Group, and rebel factions.
   • Impact: Hunger crisis, increased civilian casualties, disrupted humanitarian aid.
9. Somalia
   • Key Issues: Al-Shabaab attacks, withdrawal of African Union peacekeeping forces.
   • Impact: Hunger, childhood malnutrition, climate challenges.
10. Yemen
    • Key Issues: Ongoing civil war since 2015.
    • Impact: Widespread hunger, economic collapse, and continued violence.

Global Humanitarian Challenges

The IRC’s Emergency Watchlist serves as a critical tool for anticipating and addressing humanitarian needs. These countries face compounding crises, with conflict, climate change, and inadequate governance creating unprecedented challenges.

For more information, visit the International Rescue Committee’s website or follow updates on global humanitarian efforts.