A multi-agency advocacy paper calls for urgent prioritization of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in humanitarian response

Action Against Hunger played an active role in shaping this collective effort, reinforcing the message that MHPSS is not an optional add-on : it is essential for life and lifesaving . In addition to being a life-saving service, MHPSS is a critical enabler across sectors, including health, education, protection, nutrition, peacebuilding and more.

The messages in this paper are designed to be used at both local and global levels to advocate for the integration of MHPSS as a core component of humanitarian programming.

The paper outlines five key asks:

➡️ Key Ask 1: Enhance the effectiveness of the Humanitarian Reset through the integration of MHPSS

➡️ Key Ask 2: Recognize MHPSS as essential to humanitarian assistance and as a lifesaving service

➡️ Key Ask 3: Integrate MHPSS as an enabler of humanitarian aid

➡️ Key Ask 4: MHPSS is included as a foundational component to recovery and long-term development after emergencies

➡️ Key Ask 5: Ensure MHPSS programming is community-driven and contextually grounded This paper can be used at local and global levels to ensure that – with rising needs and shrinking budgets – the message is clear: protecting mental health is both a human rights obligation and a cornerstone of effective humanitarian action.