PCPM Foundation has obtained DG ECHO certification

As one of only a few Polish humanitarian organizations, the Polish Center for International Aid (PCPM) Foundation has obtained certification from DG ECHO – the European Commission’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations. This is one of the most important confirmations of the quality, professionalism and credibility of organizations working in the humanitarian aid sector.

What is ECHO certification?

It is an official certification awarded by the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO).

It can be compared to the European Union’s highest quality mark in the humanitarian aid sector, recognized worldwide.

To obtain the certification, an organization must undergo a detailed, multi-stage assessment covering, among other things:

• Compliance with humanitarian principles – adherence to neutrality, impartiality and independence, as well as beneficiary protection standards.

• Operational capacity – readiness to operate professionally and ethically in crisis-affected areas.

• Financial management and transparency – full transparency in the use of funds and robust, reliable procedures.

• Compliance with national and international standards and legal regulations.

Why was certification important to us?

Official ECHO partner status is a clear signal to governments, international organizations and private donors that PCPM meets the highest standards and is a reliable partner with well-established procedures and systems in place.

The certification enables us to apply for funding for humanitarian activities not only directly from the European Union budget, but also from numerous governmental and non-governmental humanitarian organizations.

Thanks to this, we can reach even more people affected by natural disasters or armed conflicts with food assistance, medical aid and shelter.

As one of only a few Polish organizations holding this certification, we are proud to demonstrate that Poland’s NGO sector is developing in line with the highest international standards.

Receiving the ECHO certification coincides with the 20th anniversary of the founding of PCPM. For the entire PCPM team, this is a tremendous honor and confirmation that we uphold the highest professional standards in our daily work.

It is not only a reason to be proud, but above all a commitment to continue working even more effectively wherever people need support the most.