Following this constructive exchange, INSO has outlined our main observations and practical suggestions on the three identified gaps raised and reinforced by participants throughout the discussion.
We believe that the official launch of our Conflict and Humanitarian Data Centre (CHDC) later this year, which was developed with the support of Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, will contribute to addressing these challenges and concerns.
On standardising data collection systems
INSO’s CHDC is a centralised repository of independently sourced and verified security incidents across 14 high-risk countries.
Designed and developed specifically to function as a global database with a standardised coding structure and definitions, incidents are uploaded and updated in real-time directly from INSO’s extensive network of field offices.
Access to this innovative and comprehensive data platform will be available to INSO’s +1,000 NGO partners in 2021.
On strengthening coordination mechanisms
As a network of field platforms, INSO not only shares and analyses incident data through the CHDC, but it also practically integrates this data into operational support services that proactively engage and coordinate NGO partners, including staff orientations, situational training, policy reviews, access challenges and crisis management.
These services are free, field-driven and fully open to local NGOs, which represent 40% of all INSO’s partners.
On supporting evidence-based policymaking
Building on our field platforms and partnerships, INSO has established a global analysis and research team in The Hague, with the overall aim of providing our global partners with cross-platform, comparative and thematic analyses that identify and examine recurring challenges to humanitarian safety.
This growing capacity will assist global decision-makers in accessing the relevant information and trends with which to direct policies on the safety of aid workers.
As always, INSO stands ready to fulfil its mandate in providing timely information, analysis and advice that supports the safety and access of its operational NGO partners and informs the policies and decision-making of the wider humanitarian community.