This review indicates that the provisions of the Operational Guidance on IFE regarding CFE are not being met. Worryingly, we identified no clear examples of strong CFE preparedness and response; most KIs described common shortfalls and challenges, from coordination and leadership to resourcing, supply chain and poor inter-sector coordination and collaboration.

Multiple actions are needed at many levels, including preparedness, advocacy, policy, coordination and research. On a positive note, UNICEF is taking leadership and constructive action through the CFE Action Framework, which offers a critical opportunity to strengthen CFE at country level.