Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that provide development and relief aid are facing a tough time. Many governments are cutting their budgets for foreign aid, while new laws in some countries are making it harder for NGOs to work freely. These changes are forcing aid groups to depend more on private donations.

The shift comes at a time when global needs are rising. Conflicts, economic crises, and disasters have left millions in urgent need of food, health care, and protection. NGOs say that when official funding drops, their ability to respond quickly and at scale is weakened.

Private donations from companies, wealthy individuals, and the public have helped fill some of the gap. But experts warn that private money often comes with limits. Unlike government funding, it can be unpredictable and may not always focus on the areas where help is needed most.

In addition, new political pressures are making aid work more complicated. Some governments have introduced rules that restrict how NGOs operate, including limits on cross-border work and reporting requirements. Aid groups say these laws make it harder to deliver assistance in crisis zones.

Analysts believe NGOs will need to adapt to survive these changes. That could mean building stronger ties with private donors, working more closely with local partners, and finding new ways to show transparency. Still, they stress that without steady support from governments, millions of vulnerable people could be left without the help they depend on.