More information about the Zero Project Awards 2026, the Call for Nomination, the other topics, and the selection process can be found here:
Crisis Response is one of three #ZeroCall26 topics, alongside Accessibility and ICT. It's being addressed for the first time, reflecting current global developments and the significance of the topic—a point emphasized by numerous experts from the Zero Project Network in recent years.
Crisis response is a set of humanitarian actions taken to support those affected by disaster or conflict. The UN CRPD embeds crisis response through several key articles and principles--specifically Article 11--ensuring that the rights and needs of persons with disabilities are protected before, during, and after crises. The Zero Project is seeking solutions that provide equal access and inclusion in aid efforts to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations such as armed conflicts, humanitarian emergencies and the occurrences of natural disasters.
This research topic also addresses disability-inclusive Climate Action, emphasizing the critical role of addressing the rights and needs of persons with disabilities in the face of climate change. Climate-resilient development for this population involves integrating disability perspectives into climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, recognizing their unique vulnerabilities and potential contributions.
Disaster risk reduction changes how we manage disasters. It uses a proactive approach to reduce disaster impact. It includes sustainable development practices and frameworks such as the Sendai Framework. It aims to lower vulnerabilities and risks. The Zero Project seeks solutions and/or programmes that have helped communities and people with disabilities become more resilient.
Humanitarian Assistance is support for persons with disabilities in crises. It focuses on their needs, rights, and dignity. It provides help in a safe place and reduces risks for all. The Zero Project is seeking solutions developed by persons with disabilities that have allowed important services, safety, and recovery to take place during a moment of crisis.
Frontline workers are first responders and service providers. They include nurses, social workers, and police officers, and others. Their role is to help people during a crisis, find out what the need, and assist all equally - persons with and without disabilities. The Zero Project is seeking solutions that have provided not only training but active support to persons with disabilities in a crisis, protecting their rights and giving them access to support.
Efforts to tackle the climate crisis require good practices and policies that protect and enhance the lives of people with disabilities. The Zero Project is seeking adaptation solutions that effectively reduce climate risks for persons with disabilities, innovations that leverage climate mitigation efforts to make societies more disability-inclusive, and initiatives that ensure persons with disabilities are active participants in climate-resilient planning and implementation.
Emergency Preparedness and Response gives clear emergency information and services to persons with disabilities. The Zero Project is seeking solutions that have trained and aided frontline workers and aid workers in making emergency services more inclusive and accessible for all.
If you have questions about #ZeroCall26, feel free to reach out to the Zero Project Team with your question:
More information about the Zero Project Awards 2026, the Call for Nomination, the other topics, and the selection process can be found here: