Accountability to affected populations (AAP) is essential to ensure that humanitarian work and programmes are effective, of high quality and safe. AAP is also an integral component of a rights-based approach. The past year has disrupted AAP efforts, forcing the humanitarian sector to rethink, rework and adapt proven working methods.

Discussions around this Priority Topic will reflect on how can humanitarians and humanitarian organizations take account of, give account to and be held accountable by the people they seek to assist? What have they learned and what changes are needed to ensure that AAP commitments are met? 

This Topic will also explore the opportunities to rethink and reflect on how international humanitarian actors are changing the way they work, addressing inherent power imbalances, listening and learning from the perspectives of people affected by crises while ensuring the inclusion of those traditionally left behind, particularly persons with disabilities and the elderly.