Introduction
Since the beginning of the implementation of the Humanitarian Reforms in September 2005, WHO and partners have been working together both at the global/regional and country levels to improve the effectiveness, predictability and accountability of humanitarian health action. At the global/regional level, health partners are working to strengthen their individual and collective capacities to respond better and faster. At country level, health partners are working to jointly assess and analyze information, prioritize the interventions, build an evidence-based strategy and action plan, monitor the health situation and the health sector response, adapt/re-plan as necessary, mobilize resources and advocate for humanitarian health action.
WHO takes its leadership of the health cluster seriously and has worked diligently to deliver on this commitment at all levels of the Organization. GHC partner agencies and organizations continue to demonstrate their commitment to the cluster approach through participation in the GHC as well as through their own internal efforts to mainstream their cluster roles and responsibilities.
2009 was the first year without a consolidated global cluster appeal or a consolidated global cluster report. However, the Global Health Cluster was able to continue its activities this year with a generous contribution from ECHO together with significant support of staff time and other contributions from WHO and GHC partners.
This report aims not only to account for the work of the Global Health Cluster during 2009, but also to reflect on the successes and challenges in humanitarian health that are shaping GHC priorities for 2010.
