On 23 June 2026, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) announced updates to Recommendation 6, strengthening safeguards to ensure that targeted financial sanctions related to terrorism and terrorist financing do not obstruct humanitarian assistance.

The revised standard require countries to comply with humanitarian exemptions established under United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2664, 2761 and 2615. These resolutions provide important protections for humanitarian activities, allowing essential funds, goods and services to reach populations in need without being obstructed by UN sanctions-related asset freezes.

The update represents an important step towards addressing the unintended consequences of measures to counter terrorist financing on humanitarian organisations. NPOs operating in conflict-affected and high-risk environments have long faced challenges accessing financial services, including delayed transactions, restricted banking relationships and de-risking practices. These barriers can significantly undermine their ability to deliver timely humanitarian assistance.

The revision also reflects years of civil society advocacy, including efforts by the Global NPO Coalition on FATF and its members to address the unintended consequences of counter-terrorism measures and safeguard the operating space of nonprofit organisations.