PAPDA is proud to have recently hosted the revised Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) launch at Sapphire Addis on August 6, 2024. This significant event brought together key stakeholders and experts in the humanitarian field to discuss the CHS’s evolution, relevance, and recent updates.
The event commenced with an inspiring opening speech by the Director of PAPDA, Abdukadir Mah. His address emphasized the importance of the Core Humanitarian Standard in ensuring accountability and quality in humanitarian work. He highlighted the evolving nature of the CHS and the necessity for its revision to meet the changing needs of communities worldwide.
During the event, participants engaged in a thoughtful discussion on several key topics, including:
- Evolution of CHS: A detailed exploration of how the CHS has developed to address the changing needs and challenges in humanitarian work.
- Importance and Need for Revision: Emphasis was placed on why the CHS continues to be crucial for ensuring accountability and quality in humanitarian actions and the necessity for its periodic revision to remain responsive to current global challenges.
- Main Changes in the Revised CHS: Attendees were informed of the significant updates to the standard, including:
- Information Sharing and Participation: A renewed focus on communication and participation that aligns with the priorities and preferences of individuals and communities.
- Consolidated Commitments: The merging of former Commitments 1 and 2 into a single commitment that underscores the quality and effectiveness of actions and programs, grounded in a deep understanding of the context and the priority needs of affected populations.
- Locally Led Actions and Long-Term Impact: The CHS now emphasizes supporting locally led initiatives and achieving sustainable, positive outcomes.
- Risk Mitigation: A new focus on identifying and addressing risks to people and communities, including mitigating negative social and environmental impacts caused by organizations.
- Expanded Complaints Mechanisms: The CHS has strengthened its commitment to accountability by expanding complaints mechanisms to include reporting misconduct and linking existing processes.
- Coordination and Complementarity: A greater emphasis is now on working with and through local actors, initiatives, and coordination processes to ensure effective and complementary humanitarian efforts.
- Whistleblowing and Misconduct: New elements have been added to cover whistleblowing and the responsibility to address misconduct cases within organizations.
- Resource Management and Environmental Responsibility: The CHS focuses on effectively managing resources, now incorporating new elements related to environmental responsibilities and transparency in resource use.
We want to thank all the guests and participants who attended this important event. Your presence and insights significantly contributed to the launch’s success.
As a committed member of the Core Humanitarian Standard, PAPDA reaffirms its dedication to upholding these standards and ensuring that our humanitarian efforts are conducted with the highest levels of accountability, transparency, and effectiveness. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with all stakeholders to drive positive change and deliver impactful, locally-led humanitarian actions. #PAPDA #CHSlaunching
Stay tuned for more updates!
