Session 3

Working with the Government in Emergencies

ObjectivesAt the end of this session, you will:

• Understand the RC’s role in working with the government

• Identify potential challenges and possible approaches to deal with them

• Understand the RC’s role in protection • Identify what support exists and how you

can access it

Part I: Working with the GovernmentPart II: Leading on Protection

I. Working with the Government RC Reflection

• Context • Main challenges• Effective approaches • Lessons learnt

Group Work

what was done what else could have been done

Identify • Challenges in working with governments in an emergency• Effective approaches for addressing these challenges:

Some Approaches

• Quiet diplomacy in countryby RCby other agencies

• High-level diplomacy (ERC, SG)• Mobilize neighboring states or donors

Remember

• Understand the context and how humanitarian assistance is positioned

• Identify agents of change within the government

• Engage with the government before a disaster strikes

II. Leading on Protection

clarify the concept of protection outline your role in protection identify what support exists and how

you can access it

Objectives

This part of the session will

II. Leading and Coordinating an Inter-Agency Protection Strategy RC

Reflection

• RC’s role • Challenges and opportunities• Lessons learnt

The Concept of Protection

Typical protection issues arising in an emergency

• separation of families• sexual violence• discrimination in provision of assistance• internal displacement• forced/involuntary relocation• forced return, or resettlement• denial of property and land rights

National Authorities

• Retain the primary responsibility for the protection of the population

• Their obligation is three-fold: to respect to protect and to fulfill human rights

Legal Frameworks for Protection

• Human Rights Law / Refugee Law • International Humanitarian Law (IHL)• Key Protection Principles• Regional Instruments

RC Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of an inter-agency protection strategy

• Lead the establishment of a protection cluster

• Personally engage with national authorities on protection issues

Seek Support and Assistance

• from the ERC • from OHCHR • Human Rights advisors, ProCAP, etc.

Support needed

Any Questions?

Major challenge

s

Remember• Response cannot be effective without

protection activities• Human rights are integral part of humanitarian

and development work• Find the right balance between national

sovereignty and the UN’s responsibility vis-à-vis human rights and international law

• Engage with the government on protection before a crisis erupts