Humanitarian Assistance 5: Humanitarian Reform: Progress to date and recurring challenges

Summary: To date, according to many observers, clusters tend to be more process than action oriented and largely exclude national and local actors. Much work still needs to be done to improve inter-cluster coordination and the direct funding of clusters rather than bilateral support has caused delays in operations. The cluster approach is not without positive developments. There have been improvements in the coverage of certain areas and better identification of gaps and duplication in assistance. However, in light of the observed international response to major disasters in recent years it is evident that the criticism that spurred the humanitarian reform process still has real traction. The discussion was moderated by Claude Bruderlein (Director, HPCR) and Christina Blunt (ATHA Coordinator, HPCR). Panelists included: Belinda Holdsworth (Humanitarian Coordination Support Section (HCSS) - OCHA Geneva), Patricia McIlreavy (InterAction), and Julia Steets (Global Public Policy Institute (GPPi))