Baku: The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has raised concerns that as many as 400 million people could fall into extreme poverty over the next decade, affecting 32 of its 57 member countries.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Rami Mahmoud Ahmad, Vice President for Operations of the Islamic Development Bank Group, shared these projections during the 'Islamic Development Bank Resilience Dialogue 2026: High-Level Panel Session' at the annual meetings held in Baku.

Ahmad emphasized that these figures underline significant challenges, particularly in regions like the Sahel, which includes Chad, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. These areas are currently experiencing increased displacement due to conflicts, climate shocks, and food shortages, deepening the vulnerability of their populations. He also pointed out that Syria's decade-long crisis has reversed development gains and increased reliance on humanitarian assistance.

Ahmad highlighted that recurring droughts and food security issues in parts of Africa threaten lives and livelihoods. He noted that recent events in the Middle East have shown the rapid impact of external shocks on vulnerable economies, with 27 member countries classified as least developed, further straining their resources. This scenario underscores the crucial need for investing in resilience.

He further stated that these crises are interconnected challenges that transcend borders, increasing vulnerability and undermining development progress. Ahmad called for a coordinated, sustainable, and large-scale response that integrates humanitarian, development, and peace efforts. Over the past five years, IsDB, along with its partners, has supported more than 10 million people affected by fragility, conflict, and natural disasters, indicating the bank's commitment to resilience as a central focus of its mission.