1.3 WASH Severity Classification ''WSC''
Uniting a global WASH response through an evidence-based approach
So far, the WASH sector has generally achieved very encouraging results in terms of improving data availability. Yet, the absence of a recognized and standardized framework to transform complex data into actionable information within the WASH sector has become a major bottleneck in decision-making processes. This strategic gap has prevented the sector from effectively delivering evidence-based planning, response prioritization, optimal resource allocation and advocacy.
Indeed, WASH does not have any tools like the Fodd Security and Livelyhood does with the Integrated Phase Classification, based ona methodology that is not challenged and results that everyone has confidence in –practitioners pick and mix tools from other places. More specifically, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) is a global scale to classify the severity and magnitude of food insecurity and malnutrition. Created in 2004, the impetus came from the humanitarian community's need to understand food security crises faster and with greater precision, to shape a more effective response. The same need is currently felt from the WASH sector.
Indeed, WASH does not have any tools like the Fodd Security and Livelyhood does with the Integrated Phase Classification, based ona methodology that is not challenged and results that everyone has confidence in –practitioners pick and mix tools from other places. More specifically, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) is a global scale to classify the severity and magnitude of food insecurity and malnutrition. Created in 2004, the impetus came from the humanitarian community's need to understand food security crises faster and with greater precision, to shape a more effective response. The same need is currently felt from the WASH sector.
The aim of this initiative is thus to design a system capable to classified the WASH needs across various crises and times. With the IPC in mind, actors of this initiative are spearheading an effort to launch the WASH Severity Classification (WSC). It consists of a set of tools and protocols designed to enable analysts from humanitarian and development organizations to measure the severity of WASH conditions across various crises and times, through an evidence-based approach that uses recognized standards and existing data (government databases, UN agency and NGO assessments and situation reports).
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In brief, the WSC aims to (i) classify geographic areas within a country with different WASH severity scores; (ii) to provide a shared understanding of the magnitude, duration, and drivers of severity in specific areas and for specific population groups; and (iii) to quantify the number of individuals in different severity contexts, differentiate the degree of urgency, and better tailor aid interventions.
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LED BY:
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PARTICIPANTS:
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REACH, Global WASH Cluster, Action Against Hunger, USAID's Bureau for Humanitarian Affairs, OXFAM, Save The Children, Tufts University and UN's High Commissioner for Refugees
CONTRIBUTORS: DG ECHO, International Committee of the Red Cross, International Rescue Committee and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine |
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