A “safety net” is assistance for extremely vulnerable individuals who are unable to meet the most basic needs for survival and human dignity. Individuals may be unable to meet these needs due to an external shock – such as natural disasters or war – or due to socioeconomic circumstances, such as age, illness, disabilities or discrimination. Such individuals are usually completely dependent upon outside resources to meet their basic food and livelihood needs.

ACAD recognizes the responsibility of the State and civil society to provide for the basic needs and the common good of its people. To encourage the fulfillment of this responsibility, ACAD supports civil society by “strengthening the capacity of local organizations to advocate for improved government services to meet basic needs

However, when governments and local communities are unable or unwilling to provide for the basic needs of the most vulnerable, there is a moral imperative for the broader human community to respond.