Communicating on targeting

Targeting and prioritization can lead to tension, confusion, and potential protection risks. Communicating with communities on targeting and prioritization is essential for transparency, accountability, and to respect the dignity of the people UNHCR serves. 

Communicating topics such as the eligibility criteria, the selection methodology, and the assistance package allows people to understand what is happening and why, countering misinformation and managing expectations. This process ensures accountability by providing people with the information they need to be informed decision-makers regarding their own lives and participation in assistance programmes.

Crucially, it helps provide information on available feedback and appeals mechanisms, giving those who believe they have been unfairly excluded the chance to be reconsidered.

Developed by the UNHCR-WFP Joint Programme Excellence and Targeting Hub, the following materials can support UNHCR and partners in developing and implementing a coordinated, transparent, and effective communication strategy for targeting and prioritization exercises:

• Joint communication strategy template 
• Joint communication strategy checklist
• Joint communication strategy example (South Sudan)
• Strategie de communication conjointe pour le ciblage example (Niger)
• Example of key messages and FAQs on targeting (South Sudan)