Humanitarian Work in Conflict and Post-Conflict Settings
The event highlighted the importance of humanitarian work in both post-conflict and active conflict environments, emphasizing ITF’s evolving role in delivering assistance where it is needed most. For more than 25 years, ITF has been active in humanitarian mine action, rehabilitation, and community development. In recent years, however, its scope has expanded to include humanitarian aid in areas still affected by ongoing crises, including Palestine, Ukraine, and Lebanon.
Through the photographs and reflections of renowned Slovenian photographer and journalist Arne Hodalič, one of the Faces of ITF, participants were invited to see the human stories behind ITF’s work. Arne shared images and experiences from over two decades of partnership with ITF, spanning from the Balkans to Lebanon, Azerbaijan, and Afghanistan, showing both the challenges and resilience of people living in vulnerable conditions.
The second part of the event featured video contributions from ITF’s partners and colleagues currently working in conflict environments. Dmytro Gorbatko from ITF’s Kyiv office presented the realities of operating the office amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, sharing how the conflict has affected his life, the adaptations required, and the challenges he faces. Erik Valenčič and Matic Zorman, reporting from Egypt, described their experiences supporting ITF’s project Hope and Healing, which delivers humanitarian aid and psychosocial support to Palestinian refugees, including the difficulties of working in such contexts. Finally, healthcare professionals from a hospital in Bethlehem, the only facility on the West Bank offering prosthetic and orthotic services, discussed how the conflict shapes their daily work and the ongoing need for support.
In his address, Dr. Aleš Musar, spouse of the President of the Republic of Slovenia, reflected on ITF’s humanitarian efforts and his experiences accompanying ITF to conflict-affected areas with the organization. His remarks underscored the value of sustained compassion and action in responding to human suffering.
Humanitarian aid is not only about immediate relief – it lays the foundations for recovery and hope. The stories shared remind us that every effort, whether by institutions, partners, or individuals, contributes to making a lasting difference.
Continued commitment and cooperation remain essential to ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most, both today and in the years to come.
ITF extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers, partners, and guests who contributed to the event, as well as to all donors and partners whose support enables ITF to continue delivering humanitarian assistance in the most demanding circumstances.