Programme guidance and operational notes: Strengthening shock-responsive social protection systems
About
From pandemics and conflict to climate change and displacement, the frequency, severity and complexity of humanitarian crises is increasing. For children and their families living in crisis-prone contexts, this means greater exposure to shocks and stresses. The impacts of these shocks can be devastating and lifelong, reversing development gains and triggering the intergenerational transmission of poverty. Social protection, including cash transfer programmes, can play an important role in helping families and caregivers to prepare for, adapt to, cope with and recover from shocks and stresses in ways that builds their resilience over a longer term without compromising children's rights.
This updated guidance document builds on the first edition published in 2019, drawing on the latest implementation experience across UNICEF country and regional offices, including lessons from the COVID-19 response and a growing body of global evidence and operational learning. While the overall framework and approach remain unchanged, the guidance has been updated to align with UNICEF's Strategic Plan 2026–2029. It has also incorporated evolving inter-agency thinking, new evidence, tools and case studies.
The updated package also includes three operational notes, each providing in-depth practical guidance on risk informing social protection in contexts of climate change, forced displacement and conflict. Together, these resources will support UNICEF staff, governments and partners in building, strengthening and risk-informing social protection systems that are better equipped to support children and their families in an increasingly complex and evolving risk landscape.
