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Background to the Save the Children's Work in EP/R

 

Many of the members of the Save the Children Alliance (SC Alliance) have extensive experience in emergency or disaster interventions around the world.  Several of the SC Alliance members have pioneered innovative interventions in various types of disasters, both natural and man-made.

 

Given the nature and scope of the disasters commonly affecting Vietnam, the impact of six SC Alliance members based in Vietnam would be greatest if they intervened jointly as opposed to each organization pursuing its own activities.  It was felt that impact would be maximized as both financial and human resources could be shared between the members, in addition to much broader geographic coverage of all the members combined.

 

Consequently, in 2000, Emergency Preparedness/Response (EP/R) was integrated as one of the key sectors covered by the Common Framework for Operations (CFO).  The current CFO provides a mandate for SC Alliance members, to conduct rapid responses in the event of an emergency or disaster; to provide support to disaster-prone areas; to monitor the situation of children affected by disasters; and to provide capacity building for Save the Children staff and other organizations/organs working with children throughout the country.  The CFO also contains a financial commitment by Save the Children to designate funds for these joint areas of action.

 

In practice, the Emergency Working Group (EWG) oversees activities in this sector. It has representation of all SC Alliance members.  They meet regularly to discuss issues of concern, feedback on the progress of current interventions, and plan for upcoming events.  The Save the Children Emergency Coordinator leads the EWG. It is the first SC Alliance position in Vietnam.  The Emergency Coordinator dedicates 100% of their time to SC Alliance EP/R activities.