A Reliable Knowledge Base for a Deeper Understanding of Humanitarian Work

Transitional Settlements: Displaced Populations – Shelter Centre (2005) provides a comprehensive framework for the planning, implementation, and management of various types of transitional settlements designed to accommodate forcibly displaced populations. The guideline offers a systematic classification comprising six primary categories of settlements, including spontaneous sites, planned camps, collective centers, and self-settlement arrangements in both urban and rural contexts.
The document outlines an integrated procedural sequence that guides humanitarian practitioners throughout the settlement management cycle - from risk analysis and needs assessment, through planning, design, and implementation, to monitoring and evaluation. It places strong emphasis on a phased, adaptive approach that aligns with the evolving needs of displaced communities, while underscoring the importance of community participation, security of tenure, structural safety, livelihood support, and long-term environmental sustainability.

Sphere WASH Standards: Ensure access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services that uphold dignity, prevent disease, and promote community participation.

Global WASH Technical Guidelines: A practical resource from the Global WASH Cluster for effective responses in water, sanitation, hygiene, and waste management.

WASH in Health Care Facilities Guide: A practical reference by UNICEF and WHO to improve water, sanitation, and hygiene services in health facilities, particularly in crises.

Compendium of Sanitation Technologies in Emergencies: A guide presenting 61 technologies for designing safe and context-appropriate sanitation systems in crises.

Sphere Health Standards: Evidence-based guidelines ensuring essential and effective health services in crises, with focus on dignity and sustainability.

IEHK Guidelines: A global standard defining WHO’s Emergency Health Kit to ensure essential medicines and devices reach crisis-affected populations in the early emergency phase.

WHO EMT Minimum Standards: A framework defining EMT levels (1, 2, 3) to ensure safe, professional, and accountable medical response in emergencies.

MSF Medical Guidelines: Practical field manuals for clinicians in low-resource emergencies, covering essential drugs, procedures, and epidemic response.

HIV/AIDS Guidelines: Integrate prevention, care, and treatment into relief efforts to ensure continuity during crises.