Group wants state actors, global leaders to prioritise children’s needs

A global advocacy group, Moving Minds Alliance (MMA), has urged global leaders and humanitarian actors to prioritise the needs of children and families affected by crises and displacement.

MMA, a global advocacy impact network of 40 local and regional organisations, founders, NGOs and research institutions, notes that its mission is to enhance care and support for young children between ages 0 and 8 years, and care givers during emergencies displacement, crises.

It equally advocated increased financing, improved policies and stronger leadership to support children worldwide.

According to a press statement signed and issued by Lola Ayanda, Communication Manager, which was made available to Journalists in Lokoja, Kogi State Capital, MMA advocated more resources to be allocated to support children in crises, emphasising the critical importance of Early Childhood Development (ECD) in humanitarian settings.

Tricia Young, the Director of MMA equally said, “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 care giving 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.”