A Three-point Proposal to Change the Humanitarian system
This solution addresses an antiquated humanitarian system in the world for the neediest recipients of aid
Problem Description
The humanitarian system is called upon and meeting need more than ever before. Yet, despite this progress, it is struggling to keep pace with the growing demands placed on it. While attempts to improve the system are numerous, few focus on its fundamental operating assumptions. This solution--a proposal for change in the form of a report from the Humanitarian Policy Group--was created to challenge these assumptions as well as the underlying power dynamics and incentive structures of the humanitarian sector.Building Blocks
Story
A foreword from Sara Pantuliano, Director, Humanitarian Policy Group
"Drawing on recent HPG research, this report – a collective effort by the HPG team, as well as the fruit of insights from thinkers and doers in humanitarianism from around the world – reflects on this complexity, and sketches out some of its implications, both for the practical business of emergency assistance and for the principles, ethos and culture that underpin it. "
Drawing on four years of research, this report argues for three unique acts of "letting go" by various humanitarian actors. First, the UN and large international NGOs need to let go of power and control. Second, the humanitarian system needs to let go of perverse incentives. Third, the humanitarian system needs to let go of its own exceptionalism.
The report's main author is Christina Bennett. It was publicly released in April 2016.
Sustainable Development Goals
On September 25th 2015, countries adopted a set of goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new sustainable development agenda. Each goal has specific targets to be achieved over the next 15 years. This solution covers the following goals:
Video
Social Progress Index
Photos
Resources
- Main Report - "Time to Let Go"
The main report that is referenced in this solution
- Report Launch Reactions
Images and tweets from the launch event of the report
Contributed By
- Christina Bennett, Overseas Development Institute
Solution Stage
One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn more
| STAGE | SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED | EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES | RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING | FINANCE REQUIRED | KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED | GOAL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Generating ideas2 | Ideation and facilitation of creative thinking |
|
HIGH |
LOW | A clear account of change or likely causation, supported – but not overly constrained – by evidence | An idea or set of ideas to develop and test |
Submitted By
Bryan Lehrer
Key Details
Social Progress Index
Platform and System Level SupportSustainable Development Goals