ALNAP - Improving the International Humanitarian System

Thursday 8th May, 5:30–7:00pm followed by a drinks reception. ODI, 111 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7JD

The contributors to the 7th ALNAP Review of Humanitarian Action will bring new insights to the issue of improving the international humanitarian system.

Paul Clarke will address the question of why and how organisational change happens in humanitarian organisations, drawing from the first substantive study in this area. What insights can be drawn from the wealth of ongoing change initiatives? What needs to be in place for change processes to be effective?

Margie Buchanan-Smith will present the findings from the most comprehensive review of joint evaluations to date. Are joint evaluations effective at generating learning and ensuring accountability? Have they ‘come of age’, and has the time has come for joint evaluations to become a systematic and regular feature of the humanitarian system?

Maurice Herson will present the findings from evaluations of the response to the Pakistan Earthquake. Did the system learn from past experiences? How effective were the ongoing system reform processes? What role did the military play? What were the beneficiary perspectives?

Following short presentations from each speaker, James Darcy will act as Discussant. John Mitchell will moderate a discussion and Q+A session with the audience. Informal discussions can also continue after the event during the drinks reception.