Child protection in disasters and emergencies

Child protection in disasters and emergencies refers to the prevention and response to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence against children in times of emergency caused by natural or manmade disasters, conflicts, or other crises. This includes all forms of physical and psychological abuse, sexual and gender-based violence, and deprivation of basic needs. 

To optimize impact, all actions listed below should consider the following six principles.

• Principle 1: Avoid exposing children to further harm as a result of your actions. 

• Principle 2: Ensure children’s access to impartial assistance. 

• Principle 3: Protect children from physical and psychological harm arising from violence and coercion.

• Principle 4: Assist children to claim their rights, access available remedies and recover from the effects of abuse. 

• Principle 5: Strengthen child protection systems. 

• Principle 6: Strengthen children’s resilience in humanitarian action.