The Importance of Coordination in Humanitarian Action

Authors

  • Dr. Mohamed A. Dahir United Nations University for Peace- UPEACE

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2516

Abstract

Effective humanitarian coordination is crucial in responding to crises, ensuring that aid is delivered efficiently and sustainably to those in need. This article discusses the importance of coordination among humanitarian actors, including host authorities, intergovernmental agencies, governmental agencies, NGOs, and local populations. It highlights the benefits of coordination, such as improved efficiency, reduced duplication and gaps, enhanced accountability and transparency, and strengthened community engagement. The article also explores the challenges to coordination, including institutional and management obstacles, credibility and reputation concerns, and the need for inclusive and collaborative approaches. The role of emerging technologies in enhancing coordination is also examined. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the need for a systematic and inclusive approach to coordination, recognizing the different strengths and capacities of humanitarian actors.

Author Biography

Dr. Mohamed A. Dahir, United Nations University for Peace- UPEACE

Adjunct Lecturer at the United Nations University for Peace- UPEACE

References

Cash Learning Partnership (CaLP). The State of the World’s Cash Report, 2020.

Donini, Antonio. The Policies of Mercy: UN Coordination in Afghanistan, Mozambique and Rwanda, Occasional Paper #22 (Providence R.I.: Watson Institute, 1996).

Donini, Antonio. The Policies of Mercy: UN Coordination in Afghanistan, Mozambique and Rwanda, Watson Institute, 1996.

Global Humanitarian Platform. Principles of Partnership (PoP), 2007.

Humanitarian Coordination: An Overview, ATHA Thematic Brief Series, 2008.

Humanitarian Coordination: An Overview, January 2008. ATHA Thematic Brief Series.

Humanitarian Response Review, United Nations, 2005.

Humanitarian Response Review, United Nations, August 2005.

IASC, Cluster Approach Guidance Note, 2006.

Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC). Guidance Note on Using the Cluster Approach to Strengthen Humanitarian Response, 24 November 2006.

International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Humanitarian Principles and International Humanitarian Law, 2004.

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The Seville Agreement and Supplementary Measures, 1997.

Minear, Larry et al. United Nations Coordination of the International Humanitarian Response to the Gulf Crisis, 1990-1992, Occasional Paper #13 (Providence R.I.: Watson Institute for International Studies, 1992).

Minear, Larry et al. United Nations Coordination of the International Humanitarian Response to the Gulf Crisis, 1990-1992, Watson Institute, 1992.

Oxfam International. OI Policy Compendium Note on Humanitarian Coordination, December 2006.

Oxfam International. OI Policy Compendium Note on Humanitarian Coordination, 2006.

Reindorp, Nicola and Wiles, Peter. Humanitarian Coordination: Lessons from Recent Field Experience, June 2001. Overseas Development Institute.

Reindorp, Nicola and Wiles, Peter. Humanitarian Coordination: Lessons from Recent Field Experience, 2001.

The Sphere Project. Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response.

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 46/182 (19 December 1991). Strengthening of the Coordination of Humanitarian Emergency Assistance of the United Nations.

UNOCHA. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Humanitarian Response: Opportunities and Challenges, 2017.

World Food Programme (WFP). Biometric Authentication for Beneficiary Management: Field Experiences, 2018.

Downloads

Published

2025-09-22

How to Cite

Dahir, M. A. (2025). The Importance of Coordination in Humanitarian Action. Journal of Entrepreneurship & Project Management, 9(3), 55–62. https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t2516

Issue

Section

Articles