UNHCR Handbook for Emergencies - UNHCR eCentre

Introduction
1. The vital role of the supply chain must
not be overlooked in the initial planning, and
the input of a logistics specialist is required on
any assessment mission. The more remote the
location of the refugees, the more difficult
will be the logistical problems, yet these
are the situations where logistic support or
the lack of it becomes the key to success or
failure.
The ability to deliver the right supplies to
the right place at the right time and in the
right quantities is a prerequisite for an effective
emergency operation.
2. The supply chain must provide for international
purchase, transport, swift unloading
and duty-free clearance on arrival, local purchase,
transit storage, onward transportation,
and final distribution, with proper stock control
at every stage. Figure 1 shows the likely
major components of the system in diagrammatic
form.
3. Logistical support can be disrupted by
unpredictable events and many factors outside
UNHCR’s control including customs delays,
breakdowns, looting, and the vagaries of
nature. Furthermore, the numbers requiring
assistance often increase during the emergency
phase of an operation.
The supply chain must provide for spare capacity
because available capacity may become
quickly overwhelmed.
Organization of the Supply Chain
◆ A single coordinated operation is essential
and duplication of supply chain services
must be avoided;
◆ This requires a clear understanding of overall
needs and the responsibilities for meeting
them;
◆ Three key qualities of a good supply chain
are: rapidity, flexibility and security.
Assessment
4. A clear understanding of the overall
needs by all concerned is essential. Needs assessment
and planning should be carried out
together with government, WFP and NGO
partners.
5. An easily understood and comprehensive
list of requirements is essential as the starting
point for meeting the basic material needs.
Without it, great confusion can result. With
such a starting point, the balance of needs,
requirements and distribution can be continuously
monitored, and the effect of these relief
goods or services will be immediately
apparent.
Planning
6. Three key qualities of a good supply
chain are: rapidity, flexibility and security.
These three qualities depend on good coordination
and communications as well as good
planning. When planning for and developing
the supply chain, ensure:
i. Rapidity: Response time is critically important
in emergencies, and advance planning
is essential to optimize resources, and not
waste time correcting avoidable mistakes
or inefficiencies. Planning must take into
account lead times;
ii. Flexibility: Logistics is dictated by the circumstances
of the operation and terrain,
and must be able to quickly adapt to rapid
changes in circumstances. Plan for the worst
case scenario, and build in the required
flexibility and adaptability;
iii. Security: The security of personnel and relief
goods must be a priority in the logistics
plan. Security risks vary from theft and
looting to war;
iv. Coordination: Coordinate planning and implementation
with other agencies, in particular
WFP who often have good local
transport and logistical capacity. WFP is
normally responsible for food supplies up
to the agreed Extended Delivery Point –
see chapter on food and nutrition.
Avoid duplication of logistical services by
different organizations and ensure a single,
coordinated operation.
A single coordinating body of all the relevant
agencies may be required to implement certain
aspects of the supply chain such as transportation
and storage (a “UN Joint Logistics
Cell”) – guidance on setting this up is given
in MCDU’s UN Joint Logistics Cell: Standard
Operating Procedures. Ensure effective coordination
by: advising team members and staff
from other organizations of minimal lead
times, respecting deadlines and delivering the
expected supplies at the time and place
agreed and keeping to agreed loading and
transport schedules;
Supplies and Transport
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