World Humanitarian Day 2024: Moving Minds Alliance Calls for Urgent Action to Support Young Children in Humanitarian Crises

By Obansa Ibrahim, Lokoja

As the world celebrate the 2024 Humanitarian Day , Moving Minds Alliance has Called for Urgent Action to Support Young Children in Humanitarian Crises

According to Lola Ayanda , Network Communications Manager for Moving Minds Alliance, “as a global network of 39 organisations advocating for more resources to be allocated to support children in crisis, we emphasise the critical importance of Early Childhood Development (ECD) in humanitarian settings.

The statement in full

This World Humanitarian Day, Moving Minds Alliance urges global leaders and humanitarian actors to prioritise the needs of young children and families affected by crises and displacement. As a global network of 39 organisations advocating for more resources to be allocated to support children in crisis, we emphasise the critical importance of Early Childhood Development (ECD) in humanitarian settings.

The early years (0-8) are crucial. The first years of life are fundamental for a child’s future. In crisis situations, young children face severe risks to their physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development. These risks can be mitigated through integrated and holistic solutions that address the comprehensive needs of young children and their caregivers, including health, nutrition, protection, and early learning opportunities. This World Humanitarian Day, we are advocating for:

Increased funding and attention: Despite the overwhelming evidence of the long-term positive impact of early interventions, support for young children remains underfunded in humanitarian responses; only 1% of humanitarian funding goes to early learning, only 2% for WASH. Funding for supporting parents and responsive caregiving is often unbudgeted. We urge donors and policymakers to increase resources for ECD programs in crisis settings.

Support for Local Actors: Humanitarian response must support and not displace successful local solutions. It should foster effective coordination and communication mechanisms that empower local actors, ensuring that ECD interventions, especially in crisis and emergencies are culturally appropriate and sustainable.

Inclusive National ECD Policies: Governments should establish and fund comprehensive national ECD policies that include both refugee children and their host communities. These policies should prioritise quality and gender-transformative services, ensuring that all children have equal opportunities to thrive.

“Every child has the right to a bright, safe, and healthy childhood and future, regardless of their circumstances,” said Tricia Young, Director of Moving Minds Alliance. We commend colleagues across the globe for their tireless efforts and honour those amongst us who have lost their lives in the process of serving humanity. We also use this medium to call on the global community to stand in solidarity with young children in humanitarian crises not just in words but in action and most importantly funds.”

Moving Minds Alliance reaffirms its commitment to fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovative approaches to support young children and families affected by crises worldwide. We invite partners, donors, and policymakers to join our efforts in ensuring that no child is left behind due to humanitarian emergencies.