When we measure,
organisations improve.
HQAI is an independent auditor for the humanitarian and development sector — professional, not-for-profit, and non-governmental.
Our Audit Services
Three pathways to humanitarian accountability — choose the level that fits your organisation’s journey.
CHS Certification
The most rigorous form of independent assurance. A three-year cycle with annual maintenance audits verifying full compliance with all 9 commitments of the Core Humanitarian Standard.
Learn more →CHS Independent Verification
Demonstrates continuous, measurable progress toward the CHS over a three-year progressive cycle — without a pass/fail requirement.
Learn more →CHS Benchmarking
A one-time diagnostic snapshot of your organisation’s alignment to the CHS. Ideal starting point for accountability journeys.
Learn more →Certified Partner Organisations
Organisations that have completed HQAI’s independent audit and hold an active CHS Certificate.
About HQAI
The Humanitarian Quality Assurance Initiative (HQAI) is an independent, not-for-profit, non-governmental organisation established in Geneva in 2015. We provide impartial audit services against the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) to help humanitarian and development organisations become more accountable to the people they serve.
Latest News
HQAI publishes 2025 Annual Report
Our latest annual report reflects on a year of growth, with 12 new organisations completing CHS audits.
OCHA and HQAI partner on passporting
New due-diligence efficiencies for donor-level passporting streamline the certification recognition process.
FCDO passporting: what it means for CHS-certified organisations
UK Aid formally recognises CHS Certification for its due diligence process.
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