Reflections on #EHF2025 from Director Alaa Wafai

Just wrapped up two days at the European Humanitarian Forum 2025 in Brussels.

From “Cash at the Centre” to “Supporting local organisations in fragile contexts” the conversations were bold, timely, and incredibly relevant to our work at SARD.

What truly stood out to me was how aligned the discussions were with our current practice:
•   We’ve long championed cash-based assistance as a dignified, flexible, and efficient way to meet needs.
•   We’ve built our identity around local leadership and community-driven response—long before it became a donor priority.
•   We actively promote equitable partnerships, and believe due diligence should facilitate—not block—access for local actors.
•   And in northwest Syria and Türkiye, we’ve proven that delivering aid across frontlines is possible with the right coordination, trust, and neutrality.

Attending #EHF2025 didn’t just inspire us—it reassured us that we’re on the right track. It also reminded us of the work ahead to make these commitments a reality across the sector.

Grateful to my colleagues Fares Al Saleh and Graziella Ito-Pellegri and all the brilliant minds we met and the thought-provoking sessions we joined. Let’s keep pushing for a more locally-led, accountable, and adaptable humanitarian system.

Alaa Wafai (left), Fares Al-Saleh (center), Graziella Ito-Pellegri (right).