CHS: A Transformational Force in Humanitarian Accountability

The Core Humanitarian Standard: A Transformational Force in Humanitarian Accountability

By Mayumi Fuchi, Head of Quality and Accountability at Human Appeal, HQAI auditor and a Researcher at the University of Birmingham.

The Core Humanitarian Standard on Quality and Accountability (CHS) has become a beacon of excellence in the humanitarian sector, inspiring organizations to place affected populations at the heart of their work. Over my years of engagement with the CHS and through the findings of my PhD research, I have witnessed its transformative impact firsthand. CHS is not just a framework—it is a call to action that drives humanitarian organizations to prioritize accountability, quality, and community participation.

This article reflects my personal journey with CHS, celebrating its successes and highlighting its profound influence, particularly in strengthening complaint mechanisms—an essential tool for safeguarding and responsiveness.

Raising the Bar for Accountability

The power of CHS lies in its ability to enhance accountability mechanisms. In my fieldwork across refugee camps, I observed how organizations committed to CHS had robust complaint systems in place. These systems allowed communities to voice concerns, track complaints with sensitivity, and ensure anonymity. While each complaint mechanism had strengths and weaknesses, the diversity of approaches ensured comprehensive accountability. Many organisations are on their journey to ensure swift resolutions with victim-centred approaches.

This was a stark contrast to many non-CHS-affiliated organizations, where accountability systems were often considered secondary to other priorities. However, my research also highlighted how individual commitment could bridge these gaps. One inspiring example involved a national NGO staff member who, despite his organization’s lack of CHS certification, implemented strong accountability practices based on his prior experience with a CHS-certified agency. This case reaffirmed for me the importance of dedicated individuals in driving change within any system.

Empowering Aid Workers: The Heart of CHS Implementation

A key strength of CHS is its ability to inspire aid workers at all levels to prioritize accountability.

Senior staff in head offices, such as those I interviewed in Khartoum, often displayed deep familiarity with CHS principles, developing innovative ways to monitor and improve complaint mechanisms. Yet, awareness was lower among frontline workers, particularly community volunteers who were refugees themselves. This gap highlights the need to extend CHS training and resources to ensure its principles reach every level of operation.

Despite these challenges, I encountered remarkable examples of frontline staff going above and beyond to embody CHS values. Their commitment reminded me of the transformative potential of equipping and empowering individuals with the right tools and knowledge.

The Power of Community Participation: A Shared Commitment

One of the most celebrated successes of CHS is its emphasis on community participation and accountability to affected populations. From my research, it is evident that CHS-certified organizations have consistently demonstrated a commitment to involving affected populations in decision-making processes. This participatory approach was acknowledged not only by communities but also by organizations, who recognized that it is integral to improving outcomes.

Organizations adhering to CHS developed mechanisms that catered more to the specific needs of communities, including multilingual hotlines and culturally sensitive reporting channels. These efforts gave communities a sense of dignity and agency, reinforcing the importance of listening and responding to their concerns.

Interestingly, even non-CHS organizations have begun to adopt similar practices. This suggests that the influence of CHS extends beyond its certified/verified affiliates, shaping sector-wide attitudes toward more accountability to affected populations. It also highlights a broader trend: that when humanitarian agencies make a genuine effort to engage affected populations, the outcomes are not only more effective but also more inclusive.

Celebrating the Impact of CHS

Reflecting on my experiences and research, several key lessons emerge about the transformative impact of CHS:

1. Certification as a Roadmap: CHS-certified organizations consistently set the standard for accountability, showing what is possible when its principles are fully embraced.
2. The Power of Individuals: Passionate and knowledgeable aid workers—at all levels—are the driving force behind CHS success. Their dedication highlights the importance of investing in training and empowerment.
3. Local Leadership: National NGOs, despite limited resources, can achieve extraordinary results when supported with CHS-aligned tools and guidance.
4. Participation as the Foundation: Listening to communities and involving them in decision-making ensures that humanitarian systems are truly inclusive and effective.

Conclusion: A Personal Reflection on CHS

The Core Humanitarian Standard has shaped my understanding of what effective humanitarian action can—and should—look like. Through my engagement with CHS, both as a researcher and a practitioner, I have witnessed its capacity to transform not just organizational processes but also the lives of those who rely on humanitarian aid. From fostering transparency to empowering communities, the CHS is a powerful catalyst for positive change.

As the humanitarian sector continues to evolve, the challenge remains to build on these successes and extend them to every organization and individual. By doing so, we can ensure that accountability and quality remain at the heart of our efforts, creating a more inclusive and impactful humanitarian response.