Left Behind: The Funding Gap for Young Children in Crisis

To enhance advocacy efforts for young children affected by crisis, the Moving Minds Alliance commissioned new research to spotlight the persistent neglect of early childhood development in crisis. Despite its vital role in long-term societal progress, ECD in crisis remains chronically underfunded, with most humanitarian resources still directed toward immediate relief. This leaves the developmental needs of children, especially in contexts of displacement, conflict, and climate disruption, largely unmet.

The research tracks international funding flows to ECD in crisis, identifies ongoing shortfalls, and equips advocates and policymakers with the evidence needed to push for stronger, more consistent, and more equitable investment in the youngest children living through crisis.

Updated October 5, 2025: This version reflects improved model performance and updated development funding figures based on enhanced analysis of OECD CRS data.