ELRHA (enhancing learning & research for humanitarian assistance ) organized an international working forum on humanitarian professionalisation, chaired by DARA’s Director General Ross Mountain on June 22 in London.

The forum reviewed a comprehensive scoping study by Feinstein International Center and RedR UK on the need for internationally recognised humanitarian qualifications, as well as coherent training and professional development structures. It agreed to explore and develop a strategy for the establishment of an International Humanitarian Professional Association (IHPA), building on existing structures that would expand knowledge amongst members and be readily accessible to humanitarian workers from the South as well as the North.

The listing of humanitarian competencies identified, course content and standards at all levels will be further elaborated.