By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja.
MOVING Minds Alliance (MMA), a global Research Forum advocating support prioritisation of the youngest refugees and their caregivers has called on global leaders, national and sub-national humanitarian actors to prioritise Early Childhood Development (ECD) in humanitarian settings.
The MMA, as a global network of 39 organisations advocating for more resource allocations to support children in crisis, emphasised the critical importance of ECD in humanitarian settings.
The Global Network made the call as part of activities to mark the 2024 World Humanitarian Day on August 19, via a statement made available to newsmen by Lola Ayanda, Network Communications Manager of the organisation.
In prioritising the needs of young children and families affected by crises and displacement, the international body advocated for increased funding and attention for the ECD.
She said that the call was hinged on the fact that the early years of between zero and eight (0-8) were crucial as the first years of life remain fundamental for a child’s future.
In its stance on “A Stitch In Time”, the global Research Forum noted that in crisis situations, young children face severe risks to their physical, cognitive, and socio-emotional development hence the need for timely intervention.
“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”, the Forum said.
It observed that “Despite the overwhelming evidence of the long-term positive impact of early interventions, support for young children remains underfunded in humanitarian responses; only one per cent (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 Early Childhood Development (ECD) programmes in crisis settings.
It therefore urged that in supporting for Local Actors, Humanitarian response must not displace successful local solutions adding that implementers should foster effective coordination and communication mechanisms that empower local actors.
They must also ensure that ECD interventions, especially in crisis and emergencies are culturally appropriate and sustainable.
The Global Network Forum urged Governments to 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.
According to Tricia Young, MMA Director, “Every child has the right to a bright, safe, and healthy childhood and future, regardless of their circumstances,”
“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.” (Ends)