YFCA actively participated in the "Community Meeting to Shape the CVA Policy Dialogue," a global event dedicated to shaping policy discussions on Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) organized by CALP Network. Sameha Abuejhain, the Deputy Head of the FSL Program, represented YFCA and local NGOs in the MENA region and gave a remark passionately advocating for enhanced cash assistance and strengthened partnerships with local organizations during the meeting.

 

Abuejhain emphasized the critical importance of prioritizing the needs and aspirations of local communities in humanitarian response efforts. To do so, she suggested involving communities in all stages of the project cycle, which would ensure their active participation and ownership, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of making a change in the funding policies of the donors to enable experienced local organizations to get the funds directly from donors without mediators. This would enable them to effectively address the challenges faced in crisis-affected areas.

 

Partnerships emerged as a central theme in YFCA's advocacy. Abuejhain called for genuine collaborations between donors, international organizations, and local entities. Such partnerships would help address the financial and non-financial risks faced by local organizations, ensuring their empowerment, and enhancing their capacity to deliver efficient and impactful humanitarian assistance. YFCA also stressed the importance of engaging the private sector as a key local partner, contributing to project efficiency, and promoting sustainable development.

 

Moreover, Abuejhain addressed the challenges posed by anti-terrorism laws and policies, which often hinder the access of local organizations to necessary funding. YFCA advocated for removing these barriers, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that aligns security measures with sustainability standards, social justice, and effective humanitarian action.

 

YFCA's active participation in the community meeting exemplified their commitment to empowering local communities and actors in shaping CVA policy dialogue. YFCA strives to drive positive change and foster sustainable development within crisis-affected communities through its advocacy for enhanced cash assistance and partnerships