As the flagship event of Humanitarian Week 2026, the Conference centred on the theme “Humanity Beyond Today”, with conversations exploring trust, humanitarian diplomacy, compassion fatigue, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), volunteerism and the role of humanitarian principles in navigating the challenges of today. Opening the Conference, SRC Assistant Secretary General, Ms Charis Chan reflected on the need for humanitarian action to continue adapting to a changing world while remaining firmly rooted in its principles.
She also highlighted the importance of looking beyond immediate response and strengthening preparedness for emerging risks. One example is SRC’s volunteer-led Disaster Awareness Workgroup within our Global Engagement division, which has evolved from monitoring disasters as they unfold to analysing emerging risks and their potential humanitarian impact, helping to identify vulnerabilities earlier and inform preparedness for future crises.
Guest of Honour Mdm Halimah Yacob, Chancellor of the Singapore University of Social Sciences and Former President of Singapore, reflected on a world that is increasingly connected, yet divided. In the face of conflict, climate-related disasters, economic uncertainty and displacement, she highlighted the continued importance of the seven Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, alongside the need to strengthen trust through transparency, accountability and a commitment to the common good.
Her remarks also brought humanity back to the everyday. In a Q&A with SRC Secretary General/CEO Mr. Benjamin William, the conversation explored humanity in everyday life, unity amidst differences and the role of youth. From acknowledging and respecting those around us to bringing people together around shared causes, the discussion highlighted the different ways individuals can contribute to society.
A Red Cross Red Crescent Movement panel, “Humanity Under Pressure”, brought together Tunku Puteri Intan Safinaz of the Malaysian Red Crescent, Mr Régis Savioz of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Mr Song Yi of the Red Cross Society of China and Mr Jae Ryul KIM of The Republic of Korea National Red Cross to examine some of the pressures facing humanitarian action today. The discussion was moderated by SRC Secretary General/CEO Mr Benjamin William.
The discussion explored how trust, humanitarian diplomacy and compassion fatigue are shaping humanitarian action, alongside pressures from resource constraints, misinformation and growing needs. Drawing from their respective contexts, panellists shared different approaches to strengthening humanitarian action, from building public trust through transparency and strengthening partnerships through humanitarian diplomacy, to drawing on the resources and expertise of governments, businesses and other partners.
Panellists also reinforced the importance of IHL and humanitarian principles, including neutrality, particularly amid evolving conflicts and increasingly complex humanitarian contexts. The discussion also highlighted the importance of stronger National Societies, regional cooperation, localisation and partnerships. As humanitarian challenges become increasingly interconnected, no single organisation or country can address them alone.
Sustaining humanitarian action also means supporting the people behind it. Discussions on compassion fatigue highlighted the emotional exhaustion and trauma that can come with repeated exposure to crises, a theme that continued through the Conference’s volunteer conversations.
During the volunteer panel, “The Battle for the Scroll: Sustaining Humanity in a 15-second World”, SRC Volunteer Leaders Namita Chhibbar, Muhammad Khairy Bin Kamali and Timothy Isaac Lim, joined SRC Ambassador Cassandra Rudge, who moderated the conversation, reflected on what it takes to sustain people’s willingness to care and contribute in a world where attention can quickly move on. They spoke about the work that often happens behind the scenes, how sharing their experiences can encourage others to contribute, and the importance of purpose, supportive teams and community in navigating the emotional demands of service.
Volunteer perspectives continued through “Humans of Our Volunteers: Live Edition”, also moderated by Cassandra Rudge, where Rupal Agarwal, Natasha Tan and Sanchari Das reflected on their volunteer journeys, including moments of burnout, loss and feeling disconnected from the impact of their work. Their experiences also showed how contributing can start small: by showing up, helping where one can and staying connected to the purpose behind the work.
Beyond the conversations on stage, guests learned about SRC’s humanitarian work through booths highlighting local and international programmes and services. Artwork by children from the Young Hearts programme, created together with Marina Bay Sands volunteers, was also showcased, reflecting their interpretations of compassion inspired by the Humanitarian Week theme, “Humanity Beyond Today”.
Closing the Conference, Mr Benjamin William reflected on “Social Power for Humanity Beyond Today”, highlighting volunteerism, values, innovation and collaboration. He encouraged individuals to consider what they can contribute, while emphasising the importance of finding new ways to advance humanitarian work and drawing on the collective strengths of governments, the private sector, communities and the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement.
The conversations at the Singapore Humanitarian Conference 2026 reflected what it takes to carry humanity forward: upholding the principles that guide it, strengthening trust and cooperation, supporting the people behind the work, and enabling more people to play a part.
Photos by Volunteer Photographers James Tan and Poh Yin
