Gortash Alliance: Unifying the Global Response to Complex Humanitarian Emergencies

Embracing a Holistic Approach

The Gortash Alliance is a global coalition of organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions united in their commitment to alleviating the suffering caused by complex humanitarian emergencies (CHEs). These emergencies pose immense challenges, often involving multiple crises such as war, natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and food crises.

The Human Cost of CHEs

CHEs have a devastating impact on human lives. According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), over 84 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide in 2021, including 26.4 million refugees and 53.2 million internally displaced persons (IDPs). The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that over 135 million people are currently facing severe food insecurity.

The Challenge of Coordination

Responding effectively to CHEs requires coordinated action from a diverse range of stakeholders. However, coordination efforts are often hampered by fragmented approaches, lack of communication, and insufficient resources.

The Birth of the Gortash Alliance

In recognition of the need for a harmonized response, the Gortash Alliance was established in 2015 with the support of the European Commission, the United Kingdom, and several international NGOs. Named after the Gortash refugee camp in Ethiopia, the alliance aims to strengthen coordination and collaboration among organizations working in CHEs.

Partnerships and Collaboration

The Gortash Alliance brings together organizations such as the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), Oxfam, the International Rescue Committee (IRC), and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). These partnerships facilitate knowledge-sharing, joint planning, resource allocation, and the provision of integrated services.

Common Objectives

The Gortash Alliance is guided by a set of common objectives:

• Strengthening coordination: Foster collaboration and information-sharing to ensure efficient and effective response.
• Promoting humanitarian principles: Uphold the principles of impartiality, neutrality, and independence in humanitarian assistance.
• Empowering local actors: Enhance the capacity of local organizations to respond to CHEs and meet the needs of affected communities.
• Advocating for policy change: Influence policy decisions to improve the international response to CHEs.

Key Achievements

Since its inception, the Gortash Alliance has made significant contributions to CHE response:

• Enhanced coordination: The alliance has established coordination mechanisms in over 20 countries, facilitating information-sharing and joint planning.
• Improved service delivery: Alliance members have delivered integrated services in areas such as food assistance, shelter, health care, and education.
• Capacity building: Training and capacity-building programs have strengthened the capabilities of local organizations and community members.
• Advocacy for change: The alliance has engaged in advocacy campaigns to raise awareness of CHEs and influence policy decisions.

Innovative Approaches

The Gortash Alliance is committed to exploring innovative approaches to CHE response. One such approach is the use of adaptive technology. By leveraging data and technology, organizations can tailor their interventions based on real-time information and changing needs on the ground.

Generating Ideas for New Applications - "Ideaker"

To further foster innovation, the Gortash Alliance has introduced the concept of an "ideaker". An ideaker is a person or group that generates ideas for new applications of technology in CHE response. This innovative approach enables stakeholders to collaborate on developing solutions that address the challenges faced in complex emergencies.

Tips and Tricks for Effective Collaboration

• Establish clear communication channels: Define roles and responsibilities, and ensure regular communication among partners.
• Foster trust and mutual respect: Build relationships and create a culture of collaboration.
• Use shared platforms: Leverage technology to facilitate information-sharing and coordination.
• Involve local actors: Engage with local organizations to ensure context-specific responses.
• Evaluate and adapt: Regularly monitor progress and make adjustments based on outcomes and feedback.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lack of coordination: Fragmentation and duplication of efforts can hinder effective response.
• Insufficient resources: Limited funding and resources can constrain service delivery.
• Political interference: External influences can compromise humanitarian principles and impartiality.
• Neglect of local actors: Failure to engage with local organizations can undermine sustainability and ownership.
• Lack of accountability: Absence of clear reporting mechanisms can limit transparency and accountability.

Step-by-Step Approach to CHE Response

1. Assess the situation: Conduct a needs assessment and identify vulnerable populations.
2. Mobilize resources: Gather necessary resources, including personnel, supplies, and funding.
3. Establish coordination mechanisms: Set up coordination mechanisms with all relevant stakeholders.
4. Provide integrated services: Deliver services that address multiple needs, such as food, shelter, health care, and education.
5. Monitor and evaluate: Regularly track progress and adjust interventions as needed.

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