1.6 NGO coordination
In addition to the cluster system, some formal and informal coordination mechanisms specifically for NGOs may be operating in an emergency response. NGO coordination mechanisms exist at a global and field level. At the field level, these should be complementary to the cluster system and not duplicative. Good coordination and cooperation between individual NGOs and its staff is also important to help an effective response.
There are a number of global NGO coordination mechanisms and specific member-based organisations or networks at a global level and in the national headquarter countries of CARE members that actively coordinate during emergencies. These include, but are not limited to:
- global NGO coordinating associations (ICVA, SCHR, IWG)
- national NGO coordinating associations in CARE Member countries, for example VOICE (Europe), Interaction (USA), DEC (UK), ACFID (Australia) and Coordination Sud (France)
- quality and accountability networks (such as HAP, ALNAP, Sphere, People in Aid)
- specific partnerships, initiatives or alliance-for example, the ECB project.
For more information about these organisations refer to Annex 40.1 Global NGO Coordination Mechanisms.
NGO coordination mechanisms at the field level will vary from country to country, but may include:
- formally established NGO coordination bodies or associations
- NGO coordination meetings for all international and/or national NGOs
- informal NGO meetings for smaller groups of peer NGOs (for example, ECB partners or strategic alliances)
- informal, ad hoc coordination and partnerships between individual NGOs.
