Protecting children in emergencies

Children are most vulnerable during an emergency. When disaster strikes, SOS Children’s Villages acts quickly to protect and care for children. With our long-term, global and local presence, we protect their rights and help keep families together. We stay for as long as it takes to help them overcome the emergency and rebuild their lives.

Emergency relief in humanitarian crises

In situations of war and disaster, children need specific protection and care. With our established global infrastructure, network of partners and trusted recognition as a reliable partner in quality care, we launch emergency response programmes for children and families who need urgent assistance. Our emergency response teams have helped children at risk in more than 160 humanitarian situations around the world.

How we respond 

We specialise in protection and care of children, which includes care for unaccompanied and separated children; family reunification; child-friendly spaces; and psychological and social support. To prevent family separation, we support families with health, food, nutrition, shelter, education or water and hygiene (WASH), depending on the need.

Our principles

SOS Children’s Villages takes action in emergencies according to international humanitarian law and the Humanitarian Imperative. Our conduct in all aspects of emergencies is guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. Furthermore, we hold a Humanitarian Partnership Certificate with DG ECHO. Learn more about our approach in our Emergency Policy.

Recent emergency responses

Syria Earthquake

On February 6, multiple earthquakes hit Syria, causing thousands of deaths and injuries. Thousands of children have lost at least one of their parents. The freezing weather aggravates the disaster and complicates matters for rescue efforts.

Drought in the Horn of Africa

The drought in the Horn of Africa is one of the worst climate related emergencies in the last 40 years in the region. The crisis is having devastating consequences for women and children, destroying livelihoods and hampering access to education. 

War in Ukraine

The war in Ukraine is disrupting the lives of millions of children, denying their human rights, and driving families apart. The situation is particularly desperate for children who lack parental care, and many more children are at risk of losing it. An entire generation of children risk growing up without the care they need.