The Humanitarian Inclusion Standards for Older People and People with Disabilities (HIS), developed in 2018, provide an important framework for making humanitarian action more inclusive. However, awareness and use of the standards remain uneven, particularly among local organisations, grassroots actors, Older People’s Associations and Organisations of Persons with Disabilities.
Drawing on a review of 83 sources, a survey of 226 respondents, 33 interviews and consultations in Bangladesh, Kenya and Ukraine, this research examines how the HIS have influenced humanitarian policies, organisational practices and frontline responses. Findings highlight tangible improvements, including more accessible services, inclusive infrastructure, better needs assessments and greater participation of older people and people with disabilities.
The report and accompanying briefing explore the continued relevance of the HIS and identify priorities for strengthening their impact. Rather than recommending a complete revision, they call for targeted updates, stronger dissemination, practical training and greater integration of age and disability inclusion across humanitarian standards, policies and advocacy.