DanChurchAid (DCA) is certified against the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) by the Humanitarian Quality Assurance Initiative (HQAI) – an independent agency that audits the quality, accountability, and effectiveness of humanitarian and development organisations.
In 2025, DCA successfully renewed its CHS certification, following a rigorous independent audit. This reaffirms our commitment to uphold internationally recognised standards in our work with people affected by crisis and vulnerability.
Why CHS certification matters
CHS certification is a vital tool in DCA’s daily work. It helps us to:
- Assess and improve the quality of our programmes and projects
- Reduce the risk of errors, abuse, and corruption
- Increase accountability to the communities we serve
Being CHS certified means that DCA must meet the nine commitments set out in the updated 2024 edition of the CHS. These commitments outline what people and communities in crisis situations can expect from those who support them:
The Nine CHS Commitments (2024 Edition)
People and communities affected by crisis and vulnerability:
- Can exercise their rights and participate in actions and decisions that affect them.
- Access timely and effective support in accordance with their specific needs and priorities.
- Are better prepared and more resilient to potential crises.
- Access support that does not cause harm to people or the environment.
- Can safely report concerns and complaints and get them addressed.
- Access coordinated and complementary support.
- Access support that is continually adapted and improved based on feedback and learning.
- Interact with staff and volunteers who are respectful, competent, and well-managed.
- Can expect that resources are managed ethically and responsibly.
Learn more about the CHS and the updated commitments here.
Accountability
The CHS is grounded in the principle of accountability to the people DCA assists. This means listening to and acting on their feedback, enabling them to influence our work, and ensuring we can be held responsible for our actions. DCA’s complaints handling mechanisms are a key element in supporting this accountability.
Our work often reaches people living in unsafe and vulnerable conditions. In such contexts, it is essential that we deliver aid in ways that respect people’s rights, dignity, and agency.
Certified for Core Humanitarian Standard
The CHS was introduced in 2014, building on earlier standards such as the Humanitarian Accountability Partnership (HAP) and People in Aid. DCA was previously HAP-certified and has maintained external certification ever since.
CHS certification is granted for three years, based on a thorough audit of an organisation’s systems and practices. Annual audits are conducted to ensure compliance and continual improvement. DCA’s latest certification was renewed in 2025 and is valid until 2029.
Find more information about the organisation that conducted the CHS audit here: Humanitarian Quality Assurance Initiative
Contact
Angie Farah
Accountability and Complaints Advisor
Tel. +45 5060 2070
afar@dca.dk
