The key point: The UN-backed fund Education Cannot Wait raised $541.6 million at a replenishment conference held in Geneva on Thursday.
Fundraising in a difficult context
- Target of $600 million 90% achieved, including around $405 million in new pledges.
- Main donors: Germany, United Kingdom, Norway, Canada, Switzerland, Ireland, EU and Japan.
- Absent: the United States, a founding member, Denmark and the Lego Foundation.
- Humanitarian funding for education fell by 20 % in 2025 compared with 2023.
The 2027-2030 strategy
- Target: 10 million children who are vulnerable in crisis zones.
- Share of funds paid to local partners raised from 29% to 50% by 2030.
- Plannedoutcome bond with Enosis Capital, scheduled for next year.
- Operating costs reduced to 7% of the budget.
Key figures
- 258 million : children affected by wars or crises
- $541.6 million : amount raised against a $600 million target
- $1.67 billion : funds raised since 2016
- 44 countries : supported by the fund
In short
Education Cannot Wait reached 90% of its target despite falling aid. The United States did not take part. The fund is betting on local actors and new financial tools.
