Humanitarian operations in Yemen are facing unprecedented challenges due to the repressive practices of the Houthi group, which have deprived millions of Yemenis of essential UN aid. These developments come at a time when the UN classifies the crisis in Yemen as the world's worst humanitarian crisis, with the majority of the population dependent on foreign aid for their daily sustenance.
Background of the conflict and its impact on humanitarian work
Since the outbreak of the conflict in Yemen and the Houthi takeover of the capital, Sana'a, and state institutions in late 2014, economic and living conditions have deteriorated sharply. The collapse of the local currency and the cessation of salary payments have exacerbated poverty, making aid from the World Food Programme and other international organizations the only lifeline for millions of families. However, these organizations have faced persistent interference in their operations, ranging from bureaucratic restrictions to attempts to control beneficiary lists.
Obstruction mechanisms and disputes surrounding biometric fingerprinting
One of the main points of contention between UN agencies and the Houthis is the group's rejection of the biometric registration system (fingerprinting), which aims to ensure aid reaches its intended beneficiaries and prevent manipulation or duplication in distribution. International reports indicate that the Houthis' insistence on rejecting this system stems from their desire to divert aid to their supporters or use it to bolster their war effort, thus depriving the most vulnerable and needy groups of their allocated food rations.
Disastrous repercussions for food security
The continuation of these restrictions and interventions has disastrous consequences for food security in Yemen. The World Food Programme has previously been forced to suspend or reduce aid in Houthi-controlled areas due to its inability to operate independently and ensure food reaches those in need. This reduction effectively pushes more children and women to the brink of famine and increases rates of acute malnutrition, particularly in remote governorates lacking basic services.
The international situation and the future of relief
Internationally, calls are growing from donor countries and the UN Security Council for the lifting of restrictions on humanitarian work. Observers warn that the Houthis’ continued militarization of aid could deter donors from providing the necessary funding for humanitarian response plans, fearing that the funds will not reach their intended recipients. Therefore, Houthi repression not only constitutes a violation of human rights but also poses an existential threat to the future of aid work in Yemen, necessitating genuine international pressure to ensure the neutrality of aid and protect civilians from the threat of starvation.
