The UN refugee agency has warned that a funding crisis could leave 8.3 million people without humanitarian aid. UNHCR sounded the alarm on Tuesday, saying shortfalls in donor money now threaten lifelines across multiple emergencies.

The agency said it is being forced to scale back food, shelter and protection programmes at a time when displacement is at record levels. Conflicts in Africa, the Middle East and Asia are driving demand, while traditional donor budgets face cuts.

UNHCR said the gap could hit the most vulnerable first: refugees in camps, displaced families and host communities already living on thin support. The agency called for urgent contributions from governments and private donors.

Aid groups say the wider humanitarian system is under similar strain, with several UN agencies warning of programme closures this year. Officials argue that early funding is far cheaper than dealing with the fallout of collapsed relief operations.

The agency urged donors not to look away from crises that lack headlines. Without fresh money, UNHCR said, millions risk losing the basic help that keeps them alive.