Around the world, emergencies (a crisis that overwhelms a society to the point that it cannot cope using its resources alone) of natural and/or human causes are occuring more frequently each year. Examples include natural disasters, such as a tsunami or earthquake, war, refugee crises, famine, drought and floods. Some happen suddenly, but many others - such as famine and war - build up over time and can be predicted. Many crises are 'chronic' in that they last for several years and a state of crisis becomes the norm.

Emergencies often result in population displacement, lack of humanitarian access, breakdown in family and social structures, erosion of traditional value systems, a culture of violence, weak governance, absence of accountability and a lack of access to basic social services.

Children are particularly vulnerable in emergencies because they are physically weaker than adults and risk being separated from their families. Their needs in case of emergencies are grouped into categories such as:

• Material (such as shelter and food)
• Developmental (e.g., schooling and play)
• Emotional (protection and psychological healing)