This course provides a comprehensive introduction to humanitarian access, focusing on key definitions, terms, and concepts. Participants will learn the three-step process—Analysis, Planning, and Implementation—vital for effective humanitarian interventions. The course also explores essential policy documents and practical techniques for overcoming access challenges in complex environments, equipping participants with the skills needed to enhance access efforts in diverse operational contexts. 

Learning objectives

By the end of this course, participants can expect to:  

  • Gain an overview of humanitarian access, including its definition and key terms used at UNICEF. 

  • Understand the three-step process of access: Analysis, Planning, and Implementation, essential for effective interventions. 

  • Identify key policy documents available to UNICEF staff and partners that guide access efforts. 

  • Explore core concepts and practical techniques for navigating complex access challenges. 

  • Acquire the knowledge and tools to enhance access in diverse operational contexts. 

Audience

  • UNICEF staff (country offices, Regional Offices and HQ) 

  • UNICEF partners 

  • UNICEF and National Committee consultants, interns, volunteers, goodwill ambassadors and National Committee board members 

  • UNICEF government, civil society and corporate partners as appropriate

Methodology

This course is composed of an introduction, eight short self-paced modules, and a final section testing the newly acquired knowledge. The modules go over specific topics and give examples where appropriate. There is a short video providing more information on who is involved in access. A final activity encourages you to reflect on the learning for each module. 

 Structure

0. Course introduction slides 

1. What is humanitarian access at UNICEF? 

2. Access 101- starting with the basics 

What are access constraints?  

What is comparative advantage? 

What is risk appetite? 

3. Who is involved in access? 

4. Policy and guidance on humanitarian access at UNICEF 

5. The access process overview 

6. Core access Techniques 

7. Situation specific access techniques 

8. Advocacy and access  

Length

   65 minutes

Contact details

EMOPS/HPS- policyemr@unicef.org