Humanitarian Data Exchange

API

Open platform for sharing humanitarian crisis data across organizations

Overview

The Humanitarian Data Exchange (HDX) API is a CKAN-based RESTful interface providing access to open humanitarian datasets. It supports JSON for metadata responses and formats like CSV, GeoJSON, and Excel for dataset downloads. Use cases include NGOs integrating crisis data (e.g., displacement stats, health resources) into response tools, researchers analyzing disaster trends, and governments coordinating relief efforts. Endpoints allow filtering by crisis type, location, organization, or format, enabling targeted retrieval to support humanitarian action across global crises.

Example Integration (JavaScript)

script.js JS


fetch('https://data.humdata.org/')
  .then(res => res.json())
  .then(data => console.log(data))
  .catch(err => console.error(err));

Key Features

RESTful API (CKAN-based)
Multiple data formats (JSON, CSV, GeoJSON)
Filterable datasets
Spatial data support
Open access to public humanitarian data

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is Humanitarian Data Exchange free to use?

Yes, most public datasets and API access are free for humanitarian and non-commercial use.

? Does it require an API Key?

No, public API access does not require an API key, though registration may be needed for advanced features.

? What is the response format?

Metadata responses are in JSON; dataset downloads include CSV, GeoJSON, Excel, and other formats depending on the resource.

Top Alternatives

ReliefWeb Data API Search Google

WHO Global Health Observatory API Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Free

Category Health

Platform Public API

Pros

⊕ Free public access to global crisis data
⊕ Supports spatial data (GeoJSON) for mapping
⊕ Collaborative data from leading NGOs and agencies
⊕ Flexible filtering for targeted data retrieval

Cons

⊖ Some datasets lack real-time updates
⊖ API rate limits apply for high-volume usage
⊖ Not all datasets are fully machine-readable
⊖ No formal SLA for enterprise users