4.2. Requesting what is right, avoiding what is wrong

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Post-disaster assistance will always be more effective when certain basic principles are kept in mind, so that the process will favor, not delay, a quick response and recovery for the affected population.

  • The objective of a good donation is that it responds to real needs, as expressed by the recipient.
  • The affected country should also inform donors of what is not needed or wanted. This is just as important as specifying what is needed.
  • Emergency aid should complement, not duplicate, steps taken by the affected country.
  • Whenever possible, cash donations are preferable. This enables goods and services to be purchased locally and saves time and logistical resources associated with storage and transportation.
  • Successful assistance programs take into account that international attention wanes as needs and shortages become more pressing.
  • There should always be a close communication between donors and recipients, communication will be much more effective if channels exist before the emergency.
  • Some materials need precise specifications. When donating used medical equipment, new equipment, tents, and vaccines, it is necessary to obtain and to provide detailed documentation for these items.
  • Become familiar with and use a humanitarian supply management system (such as LSS/SUMA), which promotes transparency and effective management of donations.

 

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