The secret to a robust partnership for better humanitarian response

By Helen Morgan, Naomi Mihara 15 July 2016

What’s the secret to a robust partnership for better humanitarian response? Devex canvassed opinion at the World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul, Turkey.

There’s never been a more crucial moment for the private sector to be involved in humanitarian response and preparedness.

With humanitarian crises on the rise, we need all hands on deck. So Devex asked experts at May’s World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul, Turkey how the private sector can be better engaged.

Watch the video above to learn more about the importance of forming partnerships and aligning capabilities before a crisis hits, as Deloitte Consulting LLP’s Alex Haseley and the U.N. Development Program’s Marcos Neto share their insights.

Innovation and technological know-how are essential elements of the response too, with Ericsson’s Elaine Weidman-Grunewald highlighting what technology companies can bring to the table, and how.

And in the end successful partnerships hinge on effective communication. Lockheed Martin’s Duane Grove, Denmark’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Kristian Jensen, and Philips Foundation’s Katy Hartley explain how this can be improved in practice.

Following the World Humanitarian Summit, Devex — along with its partners Deloitte, Ericsson, United Nations Development Programme, and United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs — have come together for #ShareHumanity. This six-week online conversation explores the role the private sector plays in humanitarian relief efforts, preparedness and response, both now and in the future.

Use #ShareHumanity and tag @devex to have your say.

About the authors

Helen Morgan

Helen Morgan is an editorial associate at Devex. She has a background in human rights, radio and journalism, and has written for a variety of international publications while living and working in Buenos Aires, New York and Shanghai. She is now based in Barcelona and supports editorial content on campaigns and media partnerships at Devex. She is currently studying a master's degree in contemporary migration.

Naomi Mihara

Naomi Mihara is a video journalist for Devex, based in Barcelona. She has a background in journalism and international development, having previously worked as an assistant correspondent for Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun newspaper and as a communications officer for the International Organization for Migration in Southeast Asia. She holds a master's degree in multimedia journalism from Bournemouth University.