Despite the challenges the humanitarian sector faces, accountability to affected persons, localisation, and the Humanitarian-Development-Peace (HDP) nexus offer opportunities for a more inclusive, people-centred humanitarian system. Children constitute a significant proportion of affected people in any humanitarian crisis. However, in adult-centric humanitarian systems, the needs of children, including adolescents, are often overlooked. When children and adolescents are in focus, they are frequently viewed as a ‘vulnerable’ group, in need of aid and adult protection, resulting in decisions often being taken on their behalf and without their direct involvement. Rather than a major segment of the affected population, capable of participation and action.

Alongside action to enable participation of and accountability to children, diversity factors amongst the affected adult and child population need to be considered, and barriers to participation of all particular groups addressed to ensure quality, accessible programming for all. How can all affected persons truly be active participants in decisions that affect them?

Drawing on real-world examples from Moldova, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso and Myanmar, participants will engage with practical insights from protection and accountability specialists. They will cover transferring power to communities and local actors, breaking down silos, and integrating sustainable, community-tailored solutions to create a more inclusive people and child centred humanitarian system. Speakers will discuss the utility of these lessons for coordination and planning at community and country level and beyond.