Quality and Accountability Initiatives: Sphere Training, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Nov 2019 (#2)

The objective of the workshop is to provide essential information on the key quality and accountability initiatives with a focus on the Sphere Project – The Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Humanitarian Response.

Based on the ongoing review of humanitarian works so far, there is evidence that well-implemented disaster response interventions can bring about significant changes in saving more lives, and the SPHERE training aims to build and strengthen the capacity of participants by promoting a standardized approach. Therefore, this intensive four-day residential SPHERE training incorporated a mix of thematic and skills-building sessions – covering both theoretical as well as the daily opportunities for self-reflection.

The workshop explains the latest edition of the Sphere Handbook, Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Humanitarian Response, which is the product of broad inter-agency collaboration.

The Humanitarian Charter and minimum standards reflect the determination of agencies to improve both the effectiveness of their assistance and their accountability to their stakeholders, contributing to a practical framework for accountability.

The Humanitarian Charter and minimum standards will not of course stop humanitarian crises from happening, nor can they prevent human suffering. What they offer, however, is an opportunity for the enhancement of assistance with the aim of making a difference in the lives of people affected.