Its uniqueness and success stem in part from the presence of, and close working relations with, certain major umbrella non-governmental organizations. In 1994, the Committee agreed on a number of measures for strengthening field coordination of humanitarian assistance in complex emergencies, in particular in the pre-emergency and initial response phases. A set of guidelines relating to the humanitarian mandate as well as the appointment of and terms of reference for humanitarian coordinators were approved and the Emergency Relief Coordinator was also designated as the focal point for internally displaced persons. Most importantly, procedures for the most expeditious agreement on the division of labour between agencies have also been approved by the Committee. Within the Secretariat, the Department of Humanitarian Affairs, the Department of Political Affairs and the Department of Peace-keeping Operations have established a mechanism for the joint analysis of early warning of a looming crisis, within a broader framework for the coordination of operational planning and implementation among the three departments.
Timing is also critical in the fielding of humanitarian assistance operations.
The Department of Humanitarian Affairs has established a Rapid Response Unit to field experienced personnel to work with the United Nations resident or humanitarian coordinator and to build up systematic support for field-level coordination activities. At Kigali in April 1994, the United Nations advance humanitarian team, staffed by United Nations agency representatives and Department of Humanitarian Affairs personnel, re-established a United Nations humanitarian presence during a very difficult period and was able to lay the groundwork for the expansion of humanitarian activities as the situation permitted. The Central Emergency Revolving Fund has consistently proved its value in facilitating both a rapid and joint response by United Nations agencies to fast-breaking emergencies. Delays in its reimbursement have, however, offset its usefulness on a number of occasions. The past year also saw the first use of the interest on the Fund to support immediate coordination arrangements in the field, with the establishment of the United Nations Rwanda Emergency Office at Kigali.