annual report 2013 - Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe

PROJEKTARBEIT
PR
ROJEK
J KTAARBEI
B IT
ANNUAL REPORT
2013
Fast. Committed. Effective.
1
Contents
SYRIA++
03 Foreword
WAR AND DISPLACEMENT
06
Review of 2013
06 Report of the Executive Board
Project work
06
10
12
14
16
17
18
SYRIA ++ War and displacement
PHILIPPINES ++ Typhoon Haiyan
GERMANY ++ Flood relief
INDIA ++ Multipurpose cyclone shelters save lives
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO ++ Seeds of hope
NIGER / MAURETANIA ++ Aid for refugees from Mali
COL0MBIA ++ Interview
Finances
19 The most important figures at a glance
20 Worldwide aid in figures
22 Annual accounts 2013
Humanitarian aid in practice
PHILIPPINES ++
TYPHOON HAIYAN
10
23 Access and security in humanitarian aid
26 Co-operation with local partners ++ Example: Pakistan
About us
28 Our help ++ Worldwide for people in need
30 Well set up ++ The external structures of Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe
32 Quality assurance and monitoring ++ Helping effectively
34 Together we are strong ++ Networks and co-operations
35 Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe in Berlin ++ Executive board and
staff
36 Outlook ++ Priorities and challenges in 2014
38 Organisational chart
39 Imprint and contacts
GERMANY ++
2
FLOOD RELIEF
12
FOREWORD
Dear friends of Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe
In 2013 we really “had our
hands full”: several devastating
disasters brought untold
misery to millions. When I
expressed how shocked and moved I was in private circles, a
zeitgeist cynic commented, “But why, surely that’s good for you;
you must be raking in the money!” He did not seem able to grasp
that church aid agencies are not concerned with raking in the
money but with compassion and support for those who have fallen
on hard times.
This accumulation of major disasters spurs us on to work with the
churches to do everything in our power to prevent such disasters
from becoming more frequent; the recurrence of the flood of the
century – after 10 years – in Central Europe; the fiercest typhoon
in the Philippines – they are man-made. How many people have to
die or lose all they have, before we are actually willing to do all we
can to stop climate change? The never-ending violence in Syria, in
South Sudan, Congo and so on and on. How many of the 45 million
refugees worldwide have to stand on our doorstep, before we are
actually willing to discontinue the arms trade and, instead, invest
more in development and diplomacy, in the prevention of violence,
non-violent conflict resolution and reconciliation?
I am most grateful for the solidarity the people in the disaster
regions were able to experience – also with your help and the
support from public funding. This enabled us to help so many.
The many, who cannot wait for political measures to take effect.
Nevertheless, I cannot be satisfied with helping only when it is too
late. We also want to “Grab the wheel by the spokes”, as Dietrich
Bonhoeffer put it. We can all do something to counter further
climate change and to counter the logic of violence!
For your support towards achieving this goal, we thank you.
Reverend Cornelia Füllkrug-Weitzel
President of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
3
Report of the Executive Board
For Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, 2013
international community to bring the
ing in exile for two years or more, and
was a year of non-stop, intense hard
warring parties to the negotiating ta-
exhausted all their reserves, with no
work with major humanitarian chal-
ble, little substantial improvement has
prospect of a quick return home or
lenges, including the biggest for many
been achieved.
regular income. In 2013, Diakonie
years: the conflict in Syria with over
8.8 million refugees and internally
displaced persons to date. At the start
of the year, the initial concern was to
see them through the winter; however,
the escalation of the conflict during
Katastrophenhilfe support for aid pro-
A resolution of the CONFLICT
is a long way off – the
HUMANITARIAN SITUATION in
Syria CATASTROPHIC
the year exacerbated both the refugee
jects in these countries amounted to
6.5 million euros.
Flooding in Germany – second
“once-in-a-hundred-years”
flood within a few years
situation and the problem of access.
In particular, access to the suffering
After incessant rainfall in Central
Around the middle of the year, Cen-
civil population was, and is, severely
Europe, numerous rivers burst their
tral Europe was hit by incredible
restricted, as a consequence not only
banks at the beginning of June.
quantities of rainfall, which led to
of the chaotic situation involving di-
Alongside the Czech Republic and
widespread flooding and damage
verse warring parties but also of the
Romania, large parts of Germany were
along many rivers in Germany, Czech
unwillingness of these groups – in
severely affected. The flood waters,
Republic and Romania. At the end of
compliance with international hu-
only slowly receding, caused immense
the year, the strongest tropical storm
manitarian law – to recognise the civil
damage to buildings and infrastruc-
ever measured wreaked massive de-
population’s need for protection and
ture, comparable to the destruction of
struction on the Philippines.
aid. Only once during the Geneva ne-
2002. During the initial critical phase
gotiations was there a brief, localised
– the Diakonische Werke (social ser-
Altogether in 2013, we received 36.8
humanitarian ceasefire, which lasted
vice agencies of the Protestant church
million euros in donations for our
only as long as the will to negotiate.
in Germany) – in consultation with
work – unfortunately, very unevenly
The negotiating parties were unable
the Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe – was
distributed across the major disasters.
to increase the humanitarian motiva-
able to help those directly affected.
Together with public and other
tion of those prepared to fight –
Experience gained from the relief
third-party funding amounting to
a modern drama, the acceptance of
measures in response to the 2002
20.6 million euros, plus other reve-
which is a major ethical challenge
flood and the joint preparation meas-
nues such as interests and contribu-
for us.
ures proved to be very helpful. Imme-
tions from the Brot für die Welt emer-
diate payments to those evacuated
gency fund, our total income was 61.4
For the first time in 2013, Diakonie
were organised non-bureaucratically
million euros. A total of 166 projects
Katastrophenhilfe, through the aid
and equipment for the dehumidifica-
received 42 million euros in funding.
channels of the ACT Alliance, was al-
tion of buildings distributed.
so able to deliver relief supplies to in-
4
Syria – aid for refuges
and the displaced
ternally displaced people in Syria.
After the water had receded, assess-
However, due to major security and
ment of the damage began. Diakonie
Unfortunately, the worst fears and
access problems, most of our aid ef-
Katastrophenhilfe opened a
prognoses from the previous year with
forts continued to be directed towards
flood-relief office in Magdeburg with
respect to the civil war in Syria were
Syrian refugees in neighbouring coun-
the task of helping flood victims in
exceeded in 2013. By the end of the
tries. Our main priority is to support
Germany and in neighbouring coun-
year, the number of people forced to
refugees living outside the camps.
ties to rebuild and make a fresh start.
take flight both within and beyond the
Many of them, who had initially
The spectrum of aid extends from
country’s borders had risen steadily
thought they would have to stay in
damage analysis and advising flood
and now stands at nearly nine mil-
Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey or Iraq for
victims, facing the ordeal of ploughing
lion. Despite several attempts by the
only a few months, have now been liv-
through a jumble of regulations and
REVIEW OF 2013
Central African Republic – trouble
spot in the heart of Africa
cance: often today, it is not states, com-
financial support. For many experiencing flood damage, this was their
The political situation in the Central
international humanitarian law and
second “once-in-a-hundred-years”
African Republic has been deteriorat-
human rights, that are fighting each
flood and, hence, psycho-social sup-
ing for several years. Largely unob-
other, but – established or spontaneous
port and remobilisation of victims
served by international politics and un-
– rebel groups and factions with their
also play a key role. The need for en-
noticed by the public, the country has
different agendas, training and equip-
couragement and concentrated sup-
been drifting deeper and deeper into
ment levels, income sources and ethnic
port is also highlighted by the sluggish
chaos. At the end of the year, the situa-
features. They have little knowledge of
rate of claim submissions. Overall,
tion deteriorated even further. Maraud-
international humanitarian law and re-
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe provided
ing bands swept through the country,
spect for humanitarian aid workers and
4.8 million euros in aid within Ger-
resulting in ethnically and/or religious-
few constraints on their readiness to
many and a further 450,000 euros for
ly legitimised pogroms and countless
use violence and violate human rights.
the Czech Republic and Romania.
numbers of dead and displaced. Here,
For that reason, greater efforts must be
sadly, the potential of religion to fuel
made to protect co-workers of our part-
Philippines – emergency aid
following the typhoon
conflict has been, and is, clearly evi-
ner organisations and our own staff. In
dent – whereas we are often able to re-
2013, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe in-
In the night of the 7th November
port on the positive role of religions and
troduced a comprehensive programme
2013, typhoon Haiyan hit the Philip-
churches in non-violent conflict resolu-
to improve the passive and active secu-
pines with wind speeds in excess of
tion and reconciliation.
rity work in the countries in which we
claim applications, all the way to
300 kilometres per hour. The exten-
mitted, at least officially, to upholding
operate.
sive area affected and the scale of de-
An estimated 1.1 million people were
struction were staggering. The tidal
displaced at the end of 2013, 900,000
Sudden disasters always demand a
wave triggered by the storm, similar to
alone within the Central African Re-
swift response. To improve this, both
a tsunami, flooded parts of the coastal
public. As a result of the continuing
with respect to our own work and that
region. The exceptionally strong winds
violence, the conditions for humanitar-
of our partners, is an ongoing task,
swept away entire villages; many peo-
ian aid are difficult. At the end of 2013,
which Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
ple lost their lives and over four mil-
the partners of Diakonie Katastrophen-
takes very seriously. That is why we ex-
lion were left homeless. The local part-
hilfe had to leave the country and,
panded our emergency response team
ner of the Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
since then, have been delivering aid
in 2013, intensified training in our of-
was also badly hit, with many of its
supplies from Cameroon. To support
fices and with our partners and provid-
staff left without a roof over their
the displaced within the country and in
ed additional equipment for emergen-
heads. Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe,
neighbouring Chad, 900,000 euros
cies.
therefore, immediately sent a member
were made available in the past year.
of its emergency response team to the
sation’s nationwide network to restore
Security management and
emergency provision
logistics and support initial relief
Working in emergency aid calls for
measures. Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
perseverance and operating in crisis re-
Reverend Cornelia Füllkrug-Weitzel
received around nine million euros to
gions or war zones, sometimes at great
President of Diakonie Katastrophen-
deal with the disaster, donations,
risk. Neutrality and independence have
hilfe
which in 2013 and in years to come,
always been the most important guar-
will help with the reconstruction of
antees for the security and access of
housing and infrastructure, the reha-
staff and partners. As a result of the
bilitation of livelihoods and disaster
changing characteristics of war, securi-
risk reduction.
ty aspects now have greater signifi-
Philippines to help the partner organi-
5
PROJEKTARBEIT
6
SYRIA+ + WAR AND
DISPLACEMENT
Nine million people in need of
humanitarian aid
PROJECT
PROJEKTARBEIT
REPORT
Refugee children from Syria playing in a tented settlement
near Tripoli in Lebanon.
7
SYRIA++CIVIL WAR
Emergency relief packages for 450,000 people++Food, hygiene
articles and everyday items++Winter relief++Psycho-social support++
Rent subsidies
“The refugee drama in the Middle
East is not something we can be indifferent about”! – This was the passionate appeal in November to the
German public by Nikolaus Schneider, Chair of the Council of the
Evangelical Church in Germany
(EKD). Together with Norbert Trelle,
Vice President of the German Bishops’ Conference, Schneider travelled
to Jordan, to gain a first hand impression of the situation of Syrian
refugees in the country and the work
of the two church aid agencies. He
was shocked. They wanted to use
their trip to help raise awareness of
the plight and suffering of the refugees. As well as visiting a refugee
For many Syrian refugees in the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon, this is already the second winter in exile.
camp near the Syrian border, the delegation, which also included the
President of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, Cornelia Füllkrug-Weitzel, and
the head of Caritas International,
Oliver Müller, met Syrian refugee
families in Amman. “You have not
The GROWING NUMBER OF
REFUGEES poses a difficult
challenge to neighbouring
states such as Jordan
been forgotten”, Schneider assured
the refugees.
in co-operation with local partners
and members of the church network,
ACT Alliance, further intensified its
relief work in the region. Together,
they support refugee families by pro-
The refugee camps were overfilled
viding clothing, food, household
long ago and are too big to be good
items, hygiene articles, rent subsidies
Well over two million people have
places for women and children. The
and food vouchers. Alongside this, the
fled across the border to Jordan,
overwhelmingly larger proportion of
partners also organise psycho-social
Turkey, Iraq or Lebanon since the
those who have fled Syria, live, in any
support and ensure, for example, that
conflict began in spring 2011, with
case, outside the camps, dispersed
children can return to school and
little more than they could carry.
throughout towns and cities near the
experience a bit of normality again.
These people are most in need of
border. Many are living in atrocious
food, clothing, shelter and working
conditions, in empty buildings or in
Since September, Diakonie Katastro-
opportunities. Their savings ran out
sparsely furnished rented flats, or
phenhilfe – through a church partner –
long ago and their hopes for a quick
have found refuge with host families.
can, for the first time, provide aid on
return home have given way to de-
“I have great respect for the people in
Syrian soil and help the displaced
spair. Many refugees also carry the
Jordan”, said the Chair of the Council
within the country. Since the begin-
invisible wounds of the terrors of war
of the Evangelical Church in Germa-
ning of the conflict, Diakonie
and forced flight. In Syria, itself,
ny, Schneider, praising their selfless-
Katastrophenhilfe has provided
around 6.5 million people have been
ness in often taking in complete
around nine million euros in aid and
displaced or are trapped in the war-
strangers. The German Government,
thus reached out to about half a mil-
torn areas.
in contrast, had not done by far what
lion people.
it could have done to take in refugees
8
In 2013, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe,
from Syria.
PROJECT REPORT
cooking facilities, running water or
TURKEY
toilets. Reaching such people in desperate need of help calls for a reliable,
well-functioning network of partners
knowing where the refugees have set-
SYRIA
LEBANON
IRAQ
tled and who needs help most urgently.
JORDAN
Lebanese and Syrian women
cook for over 2,000 refugees
Just how successful such a well-coordinated network can be, is demonstrat-
Together a women‘s initiative cooks meals and
distributes them to Syrian refugees in Lebanon.
Example LEBANON –
Protection and shelter in
tented settlements, garages
and half-finished houses
ed by a project backed by Diakonie
fled from Syria. She lived with her
Katastrophenhilfe in Lebanon. In
family in the now largely destroyed city
the small town of Berkayel, north of
of Homs. For her work in the kitchen,
Tripoli, Lebanese and Syrian women
she receives a small wage – the fam-
meet every morning in the commu-
ily’s only income. “The work keeps
nity centre kitchen to jointly prepare
me busy” she says. “It keeps my mind
meals for the Syrian refugees. The
off the painful memories and being
hot food is filled into large pots and
homesick”.
delivered in a van to the provisional
camps, which would not be recognised
as such by outsiders. Four hundred
Project informations
families – around 2,000 people – are
Project region: Syria and neighbouring
countries (Lebanon, Iraq, Jordan,
Turkey)
reached every week by this women’s
Last winter, which brought lots of
initiative. Priority is given to the elder-
snow and freezing cold, particularly to
ly, pregnant women or breast-feeding
the mountainous regions of Lebanon,
mothers, children under five and new
made everyday conditions for refu-
arrivals. “Many newly arriving refugees
Number of projects: 8
gees – already difficult – even worse.
have been weakened by their ordeal
In many places across the country,
and are often undernourished”, ex-
partners of Diakonie Katastrophen-
plains a woman from the organisation.
hilfe provided Syrian refugees with
“We cook good quality and nutritious
warm clothing, stoves and fuel
food to help restore the people to full
throughout the cold months, while
strength. The women cooks combine
Financing: 6,184,465 euros approved in
2013; of which 4,903,018 euros came
from the German Federal Foreign
Ministry (AA), 265,000 euros from
Diakonie Austria (of which 205,000
euros from the foundation Nachbarn in
Not) and 70,000 euros from Brot für die
Welt / Kirchen helfen Kirchen)
the provision of food, hygiene articles
the recipes they know well from
Planning for 2014: 7,616,000 euros
and other household items continued.
Lebanon and Syria. Nutritional advi-
Lebanon has taken in more Syrian ref-
sors from the local partner organisa-
ugees – over 800,000 – than any other
tion offer advice on what they have to
country. Officially, the country has no
consider in combining ingredients, in
camp structures for Syrian refugees.
order to produce healthy and balanced
Most seek shelter in tents at the side
meals.
Focus: Support for Syrian refugees in
neighbouring countries as well as those
affected by the conflict within Syria.
of the road or in fields, in unfinished
houses, garages or rented flats, often in
Sammah co-ordinates the distributions
atrocious conditions, without heating,
in the tented settlements. She, herself,
9
New boats and nets allow fishermen on the island of Jinamoc
in Samar Province to make a fresh start after the typhoon.
10
“The noise was so horrendous we had
Uprooted trees, rubble and land slides
to hold our hands over our ears”, is how
make aid transports difficult. Wher-
Vicente Gayoso on the island of Samar
ever they go – on Leyte or one of the
describes the terrifying hours of the
other small islands affected – the relief
8th of November. “Roofs flew through
teams encounter desperate people,
the air, houses and trees crashed to
who have lost everything in the storm.
the ground”. Typhoon Haiyan raged
Alongside providing staple food such
all day over the Philippines, with wind
as rice, dried fish and oil for one to two
speeds of up to 300 kilometres per
weeks, the aid workers distribute blan-
hour and waves several metres high.
kets, hygiene sets, water purification
More than 6,000 people lost their lives
tablets, mosquito nets and tarpaulins
and nearly half a million houses were
to alleviate the greatest need.
destroyed or damaged. The 24-year
The typhoon destroyed many coconut plantations and, thus, the livelihoods of the people.
old Vicente survived unharmed. But
Yet, the typhoon did not leave the aid
little remains of his home town of
workers themselves unscathed. “Many
Guiuan. Within a few days, the first
of our staff are homeless and our office
relief supplies arrived in the devastated
was completely destroyed”, Jerusalem
Many people also lost their livelihoods
area thanks to the partner network of
reports. But the work must go on. “The
and jobs. Boats and harbours were
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe. Support-
people are counting on us”, the 53-
destroyed, as too were the coconut plan-
ed by hundreds of hard-working local
year old adds. This is also true of the
tations. A partner provided over 1,000
volunteers like Vicente.
massive task of reconstruction, which
tree saplings, but it will take another
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe is support-
seven years or so before they bear fruit.
ing with additional personnel.
“That’s why we’re handing out seeds for
With boats and trucks the relief teams bring in aid supplies
for 300,000 people in the scattered areas hit by the disaster
rice and vegetables, to ensure there is a
‘Building back better’ – in other words building sustainably –
is the motto in reconstruction
The local partners of Diakonie
”One of our primary goals now is to
those affected. “Many of the small
create stable housing“, explains Caro-
villages inland are cut off from the
line Hüglin, project officer of Diakonie
outside world”, reports Minet Jerusa-
Katastrophenhilfe. She reckons recon-
lem, head of the local centre on Leyte.
struction will take at least two years.
But the organisation can draw on the
experience gained in Pakistan and
Haiti. And on the solidarity among the
affected communities, where everyone
helps one another. The community,
VIETNAM
with expert instructions, will work together to build 750 houses initially, the
MALAYSIA
inhabitants learning simultaneously
INDONESIA
quick alternative source of food”, Hüglin
explains. Fishermen are equipped with
nets and materials to repair their boats.
So that they can quickly return to sea
and life after Haiyan can continue.
Katastrophenhilfe work flat-out to help
PHILIPPINES
PROJECT REPORT
PHILIPPINES+ + TYPHOON HAIYAN
After the typhoon, the people close
ranks in support of each other
how to make the houses stormresistant.
Project informations
Project region: Philippines
Focus: Emergency relief and
reconstruction after Typhoon Haiyan,
earthquake in Bohol, support for victims
of conflict on Mindanao, disaster risk
reduction
Number of projects: 12
Financing: 2,776,144 euros approved in
2013, of which 270,000 euros came from
the German Federal Foreign Ministry
(AA) and 10,000 euros from Diakonie
Czech Republic.
Planning for 2014: 3,440,000 euros
11
Land under water – Fischbeck in Saxony-Anhalt after the
dyke on the River Elbe burst on 10 th June 2013.
12
It could have been a great summer for
insured or cannot raise the amount to
Petra Wabbel and Uwe Schindler from
be entitled to a state subsidy,” explains
Saxony-Anhalt. Together, the couple
project officer Annette Wiebe. “This is
ran a small holiday complex in the
where Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe can
resort of Kamern. But then the dyke in
step in”. For reconstruction aid, the
Fischbeck broke and the floodwaters
flood relief office has drawn up specific
swamped the idyll. “The water was a
criteria and guidelines. Over 200
metre high on the ground floor”,
applications had been approved by
Schindler explains. They had only
the start of 2014. The team also offers
completed building their house in
advice on legal and financial matters
2011. Just as here on the Elbe, heavy
and provides tips on disaster-resistant
rainfall at the beginning of June led
building.
PROJECT REPORT
GERMANY+ + Flood relief
Extensive damage instead of holiday
spirit – the flood and its consequences
to entire villages and towns being inundated along the Danube, Saale and
numerous tributaries. Most residents
were able to reach safety in time. Yet,
Petra Wabbel and Uwe Schindler
Clearing up after the record flood in Passau,
Bavaria.
many of them have lost everything,
have also received a subsidy. “We are
rebuilding everything”, they say. “We
don’t have any choice”.
some for the second time, after the
to the experience gained from the Elbe
Elbe flood in 2002.
flood in 2002, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe was able to respond quickly. Even
With its extensive network of social
as the water level was sinking, the first
service centres, the Diakonie agencies
of around 1,400 dehumidifiers were
in Saxony, Bavaria, Saxony-Anhalt and
being delivered. “Before residents can
Thuringia were the first port of call for
begin with cleaning or repairs, the
many of those affected. About 1,200
buildings have to be completely dried
families received financial aid – swift-
out”, adds Schröer, an experienced
ly and unbureaucratically – for food,
building engineer. “If not, further
clothing or urgently needed household
damage could be caused.“ But he also
items. At church-run aid centres, the
knows what the flood victims have
desperate and distressed also found
ahead of them. Often it is not just
comfort, advice and pastoral support.
floors and furniture that have to be
In order to co-ordinate long-term
renewed but also the electrics, boilers,
aid, the Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
windows and doors as well.
opened an office for flood relief in
Magdeburg in July.
The level of DAMAGE CAUSED
BY THE FLOOD is estimated to
be about seven billion euros
The reconstruction will take at
least three years
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, therefore,
deliberately aims to help those unable
to cope alone with the flood damage.
Many of the affected areas were some-
For example, families who do not have
times under water for several weeks.
the money to renovate their homes.
“That led to considerable damage to
But also small businesses threat-
buildings”, explains Stefan Schröer,
ened with bankruptcy because of the
head of the flood relief office. Thanks
flood. “Many of those affected are not
POLAND
GERMANY
CZECH
REPUBLIC
AUSTRIA
Project informations
Project region: Germany
Focus: Immediate and early recovery aid,
support and advice on reconstruction
after the flood.
Number of projects: 11*
Financing: 4,626,000 euros approved
in 2013; of which 500,000 euros
came from the German Television
Lottery, 251,000 euros from the
Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft der freien
Wohlfahrtspflege (Federal Working
Group for Non-governmental Welfare
Services) and 500,000 euros from the
Deutsche Bank Foundation
Planning for 2014: 8,425,000 euros
* Projects according to target groups and phases of aid provision
13
In particular, it is the simple houses of the poorest, as here in
Odisha, that were completely destroyed by the cyclone.
14
“The Disaster Mitigation Task Force
ters, they, too, survived. But they have
in our town told us to leave our homes
also lost their homes and livelihoods.
and go to the cyclone shelter”, explains
Nevertheless, Sundari Beheri is glad
Sundari Behera from Arakhakuda.
her family survived. The scenes from
Together with her husband and child,
1999, when the last super-cyclone hit
she then set off for the shelter. Shortly
the region, are still vividly remembered
afterwards, cyclone Phailin, with wind
by many here. At that time, there was
speeds of up to 200 kilometres per
no proper disaster risk reduction. The
hour sweeps over the Indian states of
people were surprised – with no protec-
Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. Meas-
tion – by the cyclone, which killed over
uring 500 kilometres in diameter, it
10,000. This time, about 50 people
is enormous. With the accompanying
died.
PROJECT REPORT
INDIA+ + Multipurpose
cyclone shelters save lives
Disaster risk reduction proves
effective in cyclone and flooding
Tens of thousands of families in Puri District in
Odisha have lost everything in the storm.
tidal waves and heavy rainfall, the
storm of 12th October leaves a trail
of destruction: The poor people’s
mud-houses collapse and are washed
away, electricity masts snap, trees are
uprooted and roads destroyed. On the
Since 1999, Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe, together with
its local partners, has built 57
emergency shelters
fields, the harvest is ruined, whole
swathes of land lying under water.
focus is on rehabilitating livelihoods:
fishermen receive new boats and nets,
while farming families are provided
with seeds and fertiliser, to give them
the chance to make their own living
“The emergency shelters are particu-
again as quickly as possible.
larly stable constructions”, explains
More than 450,000 HOUSES
DESTROYED OR DAMAGED –
hundreds of thousands of
PEOPLE HOMELESS
Martin Keßler, Head of Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe. “For example, they
have no glass, which in high winds can
become bullet-like projectiles.” And
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe’s other
disaster risk reduction measures have
CHINA
PAKISTAN
NEPAL
INDIA
Sundari Behera can hardly believe her
been equally effective: local partners,
eyes when she eventually leaves the
along with communities at risk drew
emergency shelter: “The flood de-
up emergency plans, introduced early
stroyed our house and everything in it.
warning systems and carried out evac-
All our possessions, our stock of food.
uation drills. “Ensuring that none of
Even our boat is totally ruined.”
the emergency shelters is overcrowded,
Project informations
The fisherman’s wife despairs, for
requires careful planning as to who
without a boat her husband cannot
goes where”, Keßler adds.
Project region: India – Odisha, Andhra
Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra
has no income. But a new boat is ex-
Shortly after the cyclone, however,
pensive. The 30-year old mother is not
emergency aid is the main priority:
Focus: Immediate relief and repairs after
storms, cyclones and drought, emergency
fund for more limited humanitarian
operations
alone: many others share her experi-
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe provides
Number of projects: 7
ence along the east coast. Thanks to a
storm victims with food and drinking
fully-functioning early warning system
water, replaces household items and
Financing: 470,426 euros approved in
2013
and newly erected emergency shel-
distributes hygiene kits. But the real
pursue his occupation and the family
Planning for 2014: 200,000 euros
15
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO+ + Seeds of hope
Countering shortages through agricultural support
Thanks to new wells In Oicha near Beni, people now have access to clean drinking water.
The two-year old Olive weighs only
regions – either in the form of relief
rates. By creating 25 new water points
about five kilos when her mother
packages or, alternatively, vouch-
and wells, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
brings her to the feeding centre in
ers. Needy families receiving these
has enabled around 30,000 people to
Mbau. It is immediately obvious: the
vouchers can exchange them for food
gain access to clean drinking water. In
toddler is severely malnourished. The
at selected traders. “The advantage
two villages, maternity wards were set
centre in North-Kivu, supported by
is that the families themselves can
up to enable women to give birth safe-
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, has treat-
manage their own food requirements
ly. One of the first was Mbusa Katunga.
ed over 6,500 cases like Olive in the
while, simultaneously, giving a boost
The 30-year old had already lost two
last year, restoring the children to full
to the local economy”, explains Anke
children. Happily, she holds the tiny
strength through therapeutic feeding.
Täubert, project officer with Diakonie
Airai in her arms: “I’m so happy I was
“But, even if they survive, their devel-
Katastrophenhilfe. As well as provid-
able to bring my son healthily into the
opment is often impaired”, explains
ing emergency aid, Diakonie Katastro-
world”.
Evariste Masudi, head of the centre
phenhilfe also wants to enhance peo-
in Mbau, highlighting the problem’s
ple’s ability to provide for themselves.
UGANDA
RWANDA
tragic consequences.
Children are among the countless indirect victims of the conflict, raging for
decades in the Democratic Republic of
Congo. Since the civil population has
Seeds and goats enable
2,200 displaced and returning
families to once more provide
for themselves
DR CONGO
ANGOLA
to repeatedly flee the fighting, farming in many areas has died out and,
“The aid is targeted at displaced and
despite the country’s rich resources,
returning families”, Täubert explains.
poverty prevails.
In small groups, with the help of agricultural experts, they grow vegetables,
New REBEL GROUPS AND
FIGHTING force around
1.6 MILLION PEOPLE TO TAKE
FLIGHT in North and South Kivu
alone
beans, cabbages, rice etc. or keep small
livestock. Vocational training courses
such as baking and basket weaving
help create further income-generating
opportunities.
The shortages and deficiencies in
16
In 2013, the partners of Diakonie
health care and water provision are
Katastrophenhilfe brought aid to
particularly acute, resulting in alarm-
around 15,000 families in the conflict
ingly high morbidity and mortality
Project informations
Project region: DR Congo – North- and
South-Kivu
Focus: Emergency aid for the displaced,
agricultural and socio-economic support
for the rehabilitation of livelihoods and
food security
Number of projects: 13
Financing: 4,466,688 euros approved in
2013, of which 1,000,000 euros came
from the European Union (ECHO),
1,743,300 euros from the German
Federal Foreign Ministry (AA) and
496,189 euros from the United Nations’
World Food Programme (WFP)
Planning for 2014: 4,291,222 euros
PROJECT REPORT
NIGER / MAURITANIA+ + Aid for refugees from Mali
The long wait for peace and a return home
This refugee family from Mali has built a flimsy home from sticks and straw in Ayrou.
Dry earth, hardly a bush or tree in
sight – here, in the arid north of Niger,
refugees from Mali have set up their
camp. Altogether, about 50,000 according to United Nations’ estimates.
“Their situation is catastrophic”, re-
In 2013, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe increased its aid in Sahel,
in order to ensure the survival
of refugees and the local
population
are intended to help refugees earn a
living. Care in foster families was also
arranged for 345 unaccompanied
children.
Although the situation in Mali is gradually stabilising, there is no foreseeable
ports Tommy Bouchiba from Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe. “Most are living in
In the chronically poor Sahel, periods
end to the conflict. “Until peace has
tents made from sticks and straw, with
of drought and flooding are followed
been restored, we cannot go back”, says
no protection from sun or rain, without
in any case by serious shortages. Thus,
Fatu Bilal, summing up the feelings of
water and food”. The situation is just
in Niger, Diakonie Katastrophen-
thousands of her compatriots.
as critical in Mauritania, which has
hilfe helps in two ways. While one
taken in around 70,000 refugees.
partner supports refugees and locals
in the north, a second provides aid
Over 170,000 PEOPLE HAVE
FLED to Niger, Mauritania and
Burkina Faso SINCE THE
BEGINNING OF THE CONFLICT
IN MALI
in Niamey. In the first six months,
around 2,800 refugees were provided
with food, blankets, mosquito nets
and soap. By April 2014, a further
MAURITANIA
MALI
NIGER
BURKINA FASO
4,720 refugees received oil, rice and
beans, enough to see them through
six months. Young children, pregnant
Such as Fatu Bilal from Gao. When re-
women and breast-feeding mothers
bels raided her village in 2012, the 60-
received supplementary rations.
year old decided to flee with her nine
Project informations
Project region: Niger, Mauritania
children. After five days, exhausted,
Since 2013, Diakonie Katastrophen-
she reached the border with Niger and,
hilfe has also been operating in Camp
ultimately, the 240 kilometre distant
Mbera in Mauritania. To provide
capital Niamey. Since then, they have
accommodation for the many new
Focus: Emergency aid for refugees from
Mali in Niger and Mauritania, help
towards food security after drought and
flooding in Niger.
been living in a small back yard shared
arrivals, the aid workers put up 850
Number of projects: 7
by five families. It has a water tap. But
weather-proof shelters. A further
apart from that – nothing. “Our food
1,000 families received food as well as
reserves have been used up and the
hygiene articles, helping to make life
children are hungry”, explains Bilal
in the camp more bearable. Along-
Financing: 1,517,256 euros approved in
2013, of which 985,000 euros came from
the German Federal Foreign Ministry
(AA) and 45,000 euros from Diakonie
Austria
with desperation.
side this, vocational training courses
Planning for 2014: 200,000 euros
17
COLUMBIA ++ INTERVIEW
“Then I feel I am doing
something worthwhile”
In October 2013, Silvia Östberg took over as head of
the regional office in Colombia. Together with
25 local staff, she is responsible for Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe projects in Latin America. The
work in Colombia is not without its dangers: for the
past 60 years in the South American country, armed
conflict has been raging between various rebel groups
and the government, with one of the highest figures
for internally displaced people.
Silvia Östberg (48), Head of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe’s
Regional Office in Bogotá.
What, according to your first impressions, are
and other unexploded ordnance that
what they have done to improve their
the most pressing humanitarian challenges in
are still capable of killing.
lives. Then I feel I am doing something
worthwhile. I, myself, was a refugee
Colombia?
Silvia Östberg In Colombia, we are faced
Furthermore, only two parties are
from the civil war in Guatemala. That’s
with a paradox: on the one hand, we
participating in the negotiations. Yet,
how I know from my own experience
have the humanitarian needs of the
several more are actually involved in
the difference it makes when someone
people, who because of the armed
the conflict! After the demobilisation
supports someone else.
conflict have had to leave their homes.
in 2005, former paramilitary groups
On the other, there is the humanitar-
reformed and are continuing to fight.
Colombia is reckoned to be one of the most
ian need of the people, who for the
Consequently, the forced displacement
dangerous working environments for humanitarian
very same reason are unable to leave
also continues. Experience demon-
organisations. What does this mean for your work
their homes. The former have to leave
strates that it is also difficult to reinte-
and for your staff?
everything behind, while the latter are
grate former armed actors into civilian
SÖ It means basically two things: First-
often entirely cut-off from the outside
life. That’s why, unfortunately, I am
ly, that we have to ensure that the work
world.
not convinced that a positive outcome
of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe and its
to the peace negotiations will bring a
partners is neutral and impartial and
The peace negotiations between government and
swift end to the humanitarian crisis in
adheres strictly to the humanitarian
FARC-rebels, which have been going on since Octo-
Colombia.
principles. And secondly, we have to
follow stringent security rules and, in
ber 2012, gave rise to hopes of a quick end to the
armed conflict. Yet, the humanitarian crisis, with
What do you intend to do as head of the
the areas we travel to, to closely moni-
millions of displaced within the country, continues.
regional office?
tor the security situation.
How do you assess the situation?
SÖ I would like to make it possible for
SÖ Even if a peace treaty were to be
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe to further
signed, the government would need
extend its network of partners in the
time to develop support measures for
region, to enable it to respond quickly
the people in the regions, where, today,
and efficiently should a disaster occur.
no basic services exist. Until then, we
I’d also like to improve the capacity
will continue to be there for the people,
of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe and
who are confined or displaced, or for
its partners within the areas of needs
those returning to their burnt-out home
assessment and the linking of relief, re-
towns. And, for as long as required, pro-
habilitation and disaster risk reduction
viding them with food and other basic
with development approaches. And I
requirements. We will increase their
would also like to make our work more
capacity to ensure their food supplies
target-oriented and sustainable.
What gives you the courage to tackle this
difficult task?
18
GUATEMALA
HONDURAS
and support them in organising themselves in their communities.
Silvia Östberg was born and grew up in
Guatemala, moved later to Sweden and
married there. The 48-year old has already
worked in many countries throughout the
world.
Even following a peace agreement, the
SÖ Above all, I’m pleased when the
dangers will not be over. For example,
women, men and children I meet
in the form of anti-personnel mines
through our projects, tell me with pride
COLUMBIA
ECUADOR
Income and expenditure 2013
Project support 2013
APPROVED FUNDING ACCORDING TO REGION
IN MILLIONS OF EUROS
(TOTAL OF 42 MILLION EUROS)
ACCORDING TO SOURCE OF FUNDING AS A
PERCENTAGE (TOTAL OF 61.4 MILLION EUROS)
INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS
0.8
EUROPE
5.1
AMERICA
AFRICA
14.9
THIRD-PARTY
CONTRIBUTIONS
OTHER
1.6 %
9.9 %
PUBLIC
FUNDING
23.6 %
4.6
ASIA
DONATIONS
BROT FÜR DIE WELT
EMERGENCY FUND
16.6
60.0 %
4.9 %
APPROVED FUNDING ACCORDING TO SPHERE OF
ACTIVITY IN MILLIONS OF EUROS
(TOTAL OF 42 MILLION EUROS)
ALLOCATION OF EXPENDITURE ACCORDING TO
TYPE OF EXPENDITURE AS A PERCENTAGE
(TOTAL OF 46.2 MILLION EUROS)
PROJECT EXPENDITURE
OTHER
DISASTER RISK REDUCTION
FINANCES
FINANCES 2013 ++
THE MOST IMPORTANT FIGURES
AT A GLANCE
86.5 %
0.1
7.2
ADMINISTRATION
2.6 %
ADVERSTISING
5.1 %
RECONSTRUCTION
12.7
EMERGENY
AID
22.0
PUBLIC RELATIONS,
EDUCATIONAL AND
ADVOCAY WORK
2.2 %
PROJECT SUPPORT
3.6 %
19
Worldwide aid
in figures
GERMANY
13 PROJECTS
EUROPE
Approved
funding
in euros
Number
of
Projects
Germany
4,626,000.00
11
Romania
155,895.00
1
300,000.00
1
5,081,895.00
13*
Region
Country
Czech Republic
Europe total
*1 of which is an approved project extension
HAITI
MAURITANIA
HONDURAS
GUATEMALA
CENTRAL AFRICAN
REPUBLIC
COLOMBIA
PERU
AMERICA
22 PROJECTS
AFRICA
Approved
funding
in euros
Number
of
Projects
Ethiopia
1,089,232.84
10
Djibouti
101,609.00
1
110,000.00
2
4,466,688.29
13
50,644.28
1
700,176.40
1
Region
Country
Approved
funding
in euros
Number
of
Projects
Guatemala
151,582.70
3
Kenya
Haiti
462,421.55
5
Dem. Republic Congo
Region
Country
58 PROJECTS
Honduras
80,000.00
1
Mozambique
Colombia
1,964,969.33
6
Mauritania
136,966.49
2
Niger
817,079.83
6
734,332.61
2
Zimbabwe
130,183.59
2
1,041,800.12
3
4,572,072.80
22*
Peru
Latin America over several
countries
Caribbean, over several
countries
America total
*9 of which are approved project extensions
Somalia
2,182,780.30
6
South Sudan
3,198,314.62
7
Chad
830,817.56
5
Central African Republic
500,000.00
1
Africa over several countries
683,679.00
3
14,861,205.71
58*
Africa total
*11 of which are approved project extensions
20
FINANCES
INTERNATIONAL
12 PROJECTS
Approved
funding
in euros
Number
of
Projects
864,974.22
12*
Region
Country
International projects
*of which 5 are approved project extensions
CZECH
REPUBLIC
ROMANIA
NORTH KOREA
TURKEY
JAPAN
CHINA
LEBANON SYRIA
IRAQ
PALESTINE
JORDAN
AFGHANISTAN
PAKISTAN
INDIA
MYANMAR
NIGER
CHAD
VIETNAM
DJIBOUTI
SOUTH
SUDAN
ETHIOPIA
PHILIPPINES
SOMALIA
BANGLADESH
KENYA
INDONESIA
DR CONGO
ASIA
61 PROJECTS
Approved
funding
in euros
Region
Country
ZIMBABWE
MOZAMBIQUE
Number
of
Projects
Afghanistan
87,745.83
2
Bangladesh
2,886.82
1
China
41,382.25
2
India
470,425.80
7
Indonesia
340,000.00
2
Japan
127,955.13
1
Myanmar
120,000.00
2
North Korea
30,000.00
1
Pakistan
4,658,227.71
14
Palestine
1,330,260.97
4
Philippines
2,776,144.35
12
Syria & neighbouring
countries
6,184,464.99
8
370,000.00
2
Turkey
Vietnam
59,000.00
2
Asia over several countries
33,804.69
1
16,632,298.54
61*
Asia total
*4 of which are approved project extensions
21
Annual accounts
ANNUAL ACCOUNTS 2013
2013
in euros
Total available funds as of 1.1.
Source of funds
Donations
Fines
Legacies
Brot für die Welt Emergency fund
Interest
Public funding
in %
45,571,733.11
in euros
36,847,607.43
60.0
7,432,147.79
600.00
0.0
0.00
0.0
8,395.46
0.0
95,009.94
0.3
3,000,000.00
4.9
4,033,483.00
14.8
897,597.28
1.5
2,287,492.82
8.4
14,518,118.24
23.6
8,771,276.48
32.1
1,390,200.00
4,651,103.27
AA/Humanitarian Aid
8,948,909.20
2,638,122.68
ECHO
1,982,350.99
762,408.32
UN
Miscellaneous
0.00
130,709.68
2,196,658.05
546,638.93
0.00
42,293.60
Third-party contributions
6,075,094.83
BfdW project co-operation
3,006,562.12
9.9
4,609,976.96
578,330.55
670,000.00
ACT Alliance
184,847.02
1,015,382.87
Other third-party contributions
Other income
Total source of funds
Use of funds
Project expenses
Human rights immediate aid projects
Project support
Statutory public relations work
Advertising
Administration
Total use of funds
Balance of funds as of 31.12.
including approved project funds
Including free reserves
including earmarked project fund reserves
including free project fund reserves
available for future approval
27.2
16.9
2,146,820.59
German Caritas Association
Diakonie Austria
in %
58,521,749.05
BMZ/Emergency and Refugee Aid
EU/EuropeAid/DIPECHO
22
2012
559,127.00
167,873.00
1,746,228.14
609,900.50
98,754.27
0.2
55,136.74
0.2
61,446,167.52
100.0
27,284,523.73
100.0
39,868,932.45
86.3
34,819,859.45
86.5
100,000.00
0.2
100,000.00
0.2
1,684,532.74
3.6
2,015,291.44
5.0
1,004,620.88
2.2
865,181.54
2.2
2,344,644.70
5.1
1,480,548.50
3.7
1,186,862.38
2.6
953,658.74
2.4
46,189,593.16
100.0
40,234,539.67
100.0
60,828,307.46
45,571,733.11
15,886,456.36
26.1
15,237,368.52
4,420,483.68
7.3
4,420,483.68
33.4
9.7
12,488,566.70
20.5
5,167,972.55
11.3
3,612,853.30
5.9
3,612,853.30
7.9
24,419,947.42
40.1
17,133,055.06
37.6
HUMANITARIAN AID IN PRACTICE
Access and security in
humanitarian aid++
Dangerous, but life-essential:
Humanitarian aid in conflict areas
Refugees have a right to assistance. But, in conflict situations, it is often difficult for aid workers to reach them.
23
“If the whole or part of the population of an occupied territory is inadequately supplied, the Occupying Power shall
agree to relief schemes on behalf of the said population,
and shall facilitate them by all the means at its disposal.”
Geneva Convention on the protection of civilians in times of war, 1949, Article 59
These stipulations in the Geneva Con-
of the country remain inaccessible for
hardship and not giving the opposition
vention define the international legal
aid organisations. Last year, Medécin
an advantage.
basis for humanitarian aid in violent-
sans frontiers had to abandon its work
ly conducted conflicts. They oblige
after 22 years in Somalia as a result of
In many violent conflicts, the attempt
all states to permit and facilitate the
attacks on its staff.
to instrumentalise humanitarian aid is
delivery of aid to a population in need.
not an exception but the rule. Some-
International law also protects human-
The majority of humanitarian aid,
times, aid organisations themselves
itarian aid workers and facilities.
today, is being provided in situations
violate the humanitarian principles.
According to customary international
of armed conflict. The military and/
For instance in Somalia or Afghani-
law this also applies to non-govern-
or rebels repeatedly instrumental-
stan, where aid organisations – on the
mental parties involved in conflict.
ise humanitarian aid as a means of
basis of their own political convictions,
protecting themselves more effectively
pressure from donors or in the hope of
or – on their terms – to “stabilise” the
securing a swift end to the conflict –
context. The blurring of boundaries be-
have clearly positioned themselves on
tween humanitarian aid and military
one side of the conflict. Such violations
operations along with the increasing
of the humanitarian principles not
significance of armed drones and intel-
only endanger the work of the organi-
In 2012 throughout the world, 274
ligence services in wars are giving rise
sation concerned, but also damage hu-
aid workers were victims of attacks.
to real concerns that these problems
manitarian aid as a whole and impair
In 2013, according to US-AID, 13 aid
will worsen.
the access and security of all other aid
The REALITY however is a different matter, with ATTACKS
on aid workers increasing
organisations.
workers were killed in Syria alone,
24
twelve seriously injured and ten ab-
The responsibility of aid organisations
ducted, most of them local staff . For,
The international legal provisions
Putting this into operation
as in many other conflicts, the majority
of the Geneva Convention are also
That is why leading aid organisations
of aid workers in Syria are locals, who
an obligation for aid organisations
such as Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
work at great personal risk.
themselves. Aid must be provided by
unequivocally commit themselves to
impartial humanitarian organisations
the four humanitarian principles:
These threats also make it more
and shall not confer an advantage
difficult for the suffering population
on any of the parties involved in the
to have access to humanitarian aid.
conflict. These provisions, however,
In Syria, hundreds of thousands are
are much more than a legal obligation.
either partially or completely cut-off
The need to have the trust and ac-
receive aid according to their degree
from humanitarian assistance. Heavy
ceptance of the affected population as
of need, irrespective of group affilia-
fighting often makes aid deliveries
well as the conflicting parties is just as
impossible. Or, however, as in a case
crucial. If the latter are to agree to aid
like Homs, the parties involved in the
deliveries, they have to be able to trust
shall not be dependent on other in-
conflict allow very little aid to enter
aid organisations, that they are indeed
terests, whether of security, econom-
besieged areas. In Somalia, large parts
delivering aid to alleviate suffering and
ic or any other nature.
Q Humanity – alleviating suffering is
the motive for aid provision.
Q Impartiality – all people in need
tion
Q Independence – humanitarian aid
HUMANITARIAN AID IN PRACTICE
Once again in 2013, the ongoing civil war in Somalia meant that hundreds of thousands people were forced to take flight.
are denied access because its staff in-
ly in Syria and Somalia. That is why
provided without showing favourit-
clude representatives from all the clans
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe has been
ism to one of the conflicting parties.
and is, thus, accepted by all parties
developing a comprehensive security
involved in the conflict.
concept since 2013, which includes
Q Neutrality – humanitarian aid is
These principles, especially in situa-
security plans specifically adapted to
tions of violent conflict, are not some
In view of the massive violations of
each country, and reviewing security
kind of overstated ideology but essen-
humanitarian principles and the
issues in dialogue with its partners.
tial instruments of professional relief
consequences for humanitarian aid as
This should improve protection both
provision and a prerequisite for access
a whole, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe,
for the international and the local
and security.
in political dialogue with the German
aid workers. Absolute security is not
Government and other aid organisa-
possible in war. Large-scale technical
A further aspect of our work is the
tions, is also advocating for compli-
security measures would be more likely
close and long-term co-operation with
ance with international humanitarian
to impede humanitarian aid or ensure
church-based or secular partner organ-
law and humanitarian principles. One
that aid workers become targets for
isations. As local aid organisations,
result of this is the clear distinction
attack. Thus, the real question is how
they are familiar with the political and
between humanitarian aid and the
humanitarian assistance can remain
cultural context and, hence, the secu-
military agreed in 2013 by aid organ-
possible even under the most difficult
rity and access complications. Part of
isations and the German Ministry of
circumstances. The most important
this working partnership also includes
Defence.
basis for this continues to be the hu-
the difficult combined efforts to realise
the humanitarian principles, to which
our partners are also committed. It is
only because our partner organisation
in Syria, the Rum-Orthodox Church,
is recognised as being impartial and
sufficiently neutral by the conflicting
manitarian principles.
Credible adherence to the humanitarian principles remains
the most important basis for access to a population in need
and the security of aid workers
parties, that it is able to provide relief
throughout large parts of the country.
Despite all the efforts, there are still
In Somalia, our partner organisation
recurring incidents and victims – also
can operate in areas, to which others
involving our partners – most recent-
1 www.aidworkersecurity.org
25
Principles of co-operation
with local partners++
Example: Pakistan
Humanitarian aid in crises and disas-
thing is the possibility that working
and facilitate co-operation with local
ters, according to the understanding
together as partners will alleviate and
authorities. They also ensure that
of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, should
overcome suffering and hardship.
specific relief measures are planned
be carried out by supporting and
jointly with those affected. In return,
strengthening local organisations. It is
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe considers
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, alongside
only in exceptional cases – where there
itself and its local organisations as
funding, contributes its experience in
is no contact with partners or where
equal partners. Key ingredients in this
the field of humanitarian aid gained
these have insufficient capacities – that
are mutual respect and the recognition
over several decades and its contacts
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe intervenes
of the capabilities, aspirations and
with civil society and governments in
directly. However, it constantly tries to
potential – but also the limitations – of
the North.
involve local organisations in its aid
the partners. The basis for effective
programmes.
and long-term co-operation is a shared
Openness and transparency are the
concept of values. Objectives and
basic preconditions for trusting co-op-
activities of both organisations must
eration. Both partners must be ac-
correspond with, and complement,
countable for what they actually do as
one another. This applies in essence
well as for their finances and, together,
to all members of the ACT Alliance. In
systematically address problems such
Partnership –
as an expression of the
Christian view of humanity
choosing other co-operation partners,
as corruption or embezzlement of
The Christian foundation distinguish-
professional competence is not in itself
project funds. It is not only here that
es Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, as a
the decisive factor but the approach
communication and the exchange
Protestant aid agency, from secular
to the shared task and, in particular,
of ideas play a crucial role. Diakonie
aid organisations – also in terms of
compliance with the humanitarian
Katastrophenhilfe, just as ACT
its understanding of partnership.
principles.
Alliance as a whole, considers itself to
be a learning organisation, constantly
Wherever possible, it co-operates in the
global South and North with churches
or other Christian partners, specifically
within the scope of the worldwide network, ACT Alliance, in which around
140 church aid agencies from East,
West, North and South work together
Empowering and enabling
people to help themselves are
at the heart of co-operation – in
relation both to the partners and
to beneficiaries
as long-term partners. On the basis
26
striving to learn from experience, to
continue to develop and to optimise its
own work.
AFGHANISTAN
of the Christian understanding that
In this way, each benefits from the
all human beings in need should be
strengths of the other. As well as their
helped, aid is provided for the benefit
particular expertise, partners in the
of all experiencing hardship, regardless
South contribute their knowledge of
of their religious affiliation. Working
the local and cultural context. Their
co-operation also exists with civil
local roots and own working structures
society organisations that have no or a
enable them to gain access to the
different religious basis. The important
people affected by disasters and crises,
PAKISTAN
INDIA
HUMANITARIAN AID IN PRACTICE
Agricultural advisors from the local partners support farmers in Pakistan to make a fresh start.
the consequences of the flood.
“For our local partners we
provide training and advice
across a broad range of areas
– from office work to project
implementation”, Chris Fischer,
head of mission in Pakistan
of nine, was able to return to his home
They, then, jointly developed an aid
As part of the project, Diakonie
village of Dildar Gharhi in Charsadda
project that combined building houses
Katastrophenhilfe, together with its
District in Northwest Pakistan, he
and securing livelihoods with disaster
partners, built a total of 61 new houses
could not believe his eyes: all that re-
risk prevention. After securing the fi-
for those worst hit by the flood. Around
mained of the family’s mud house was
nancing and the village committee had
1,500 other families benefited from
one damaged room. Everything else
confirmed the selection of beneficiar-
the income-generating measures.
had been swept away by the river. The
ies, the Khan family received vegetable
field Jalat Khan had tilled – his family’s
seeds, gardening tools and agricultural
Currently, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
only source of income – was a sea of
training to enable them to cultivate
is working in Pakistan with 11 partner
mud, the crops destroyed. The family
their land again. New irrigation canals
organisations. Chris Fischer empha-
had no alternative but to temporarily
help to increase yields, which means
sises that both sides benefit from the
settle in the ruins. The father had to
that Jalat Khan can now sell some of
knowledge and skills of the other, and
work as a day labourer for little money
his vegetables at market. Another part-
that this sharing of knowledge and the
to fill his children’s empty stomachs.
ner organisation of Diakonie Katastro-
expansion of regional expertise were
The Khans waited in vain for any kind
phenhilfe helped the family to build a
key ingredients of the co-operation.
of state aid.
new earthquake- and flood-resistant
The aim is to empower the partner
house. The whole village benefits from
so that it is able to proceed with the
That was in July 2010, when the
the disaster risk reduction measures.
project on its own.
abnormally heavy monsoon rains
“During the flood, we didn’t know what
resulted in the Indus and its tributaries
to do. Now we have specially trained
bursting their banks and flooding
villagers, who show us how to prepare
one-fifth of the land. Twenty million
for disasters”, Jalat Khan reports.
“I am very grateful to the
Germans, who help PEOPLE IN
NEED like my family.” Jalat Khan,
FLOOD SURVIVOR IN PAKISTAN
their entire livelihoods. Two years
later, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, together with one of its Pakistani partner
organisations, carried out a needs assessment in Dildar Gharhi, to establish
how many people were still suffering
When the water eventually receded and
Jalat Khan, together with his family
people lost not only their homes but
27
Our help ++Worldwide
for people in need
able people to provide for themselves.
For 60 years, Diakonie Katastro-
the long-term, to enable them in the
Following serious disasters, such as
phenhilfe has been providing help,
future to be major providers of human-
the earthquake in Haiti, it often takes
where it is needed most. Whether in
itarian aid.
years for life to return to normality.
earthquakes, storms or drought, or
We ensure survival
We reduce risk
wherever people are forced to flee war
Immediately after a disaster, we pro-
Poverty, climate change and envi-
and violence. Every year, we support
vide people with what they need most
ronmental destruction contribute to
around 150 aid projects throughout
to survive: food, medicine, clean drink-
increases in the frequency of storms,
the world. The weakest and the most
ing water, blankets, tents and clothes.
floods and droughts and their often
vulnerable are always at the heart of
But also hygiene articles, medicines
devastating consequences. In high-risk
our endeavours: refugees, children,
or mosquito nets to help them survive
areas, we help people to protect them-
women, single parents, the elderly, the
the crisis and remain healthy. Where
selves from the potential impacts of fu-
sick and people with disabilities.
possible, we purchase relief items
ture disasters and to adapt to changing
locally. This saves time and transport
climate conditions. By helping them,
Since its foundation in 1954,
costs and simultaneously boosts the
for example, with the afforestation of
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe has
local economy.
protective green belt, or to set up water
response to natural disasters such as
been the humanitarian aid agency of
tanks and grain silos, erect storm and
the Protestant churches in Germa-
We build futures
earthquake resistant buildings and
ny. Together with Brot für die Welt,
A disaster often destroys people’s
distribute specially adapted seeds. Our
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe is part of
entire livelihoods. After the emergency
partners train local disaster risk reduc-
the Protestant Agency for Diakonia
relief, we support the people affected to
tion committees, develop emergency
and Development set up in 2012. This
make a fresh start. We help to rebuild
plans and early warning systems and
co-operation ensures that the emergen-
houses, repair schools and health
carry out evacuation drills. For one
cy and reconstruction aid following a
stations and restore water supplies.
thing is certain: risk reduction in the
disaster can, where necessary, be trans-
Through the provision of seeds and
event of a disaster can save lives and
formed into sustainable development
tools together with agricultural and
help mitigate the impacts of climate
programmes.
occupational training courses, we en-
change.
From emergency aid and
reconstruction to disaster risk
reduction, we stand alongside
those affected by disasters and
conflicts
Our aid is targeted exclusively to meet
the needs of those affected and adapted to the particular political, economic
and cultural context. Hence, Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe also works primarily together with experienced local
partners. They are familiar with the
language and local conditions. Thus,
we are already there when and where
help is urgently required and can also
help swiftly and effectively in difficult
to access regions. We remain, as long
as we are needed – even when media
interest has long since waned. And we
28
strengthen local aid organisations for
Reliant on aid – a Syrian woman in Al-Hilweh Camp in Lebanon.
ABOUT US
Immediately on the spot – distribution of relief supplies following the typhoon in the Philippines.
Our aid is not linked to any conditions.
responsibility for God’s creation, and
It is not only in our own work that we
We help, irrespective of the political,
follows the internationally established
adhere to these principles. We also
religious and cultural affiliations of
principles of humanitarian aid. The
work to ensure that they are respected
those in need. Respecting and protect-
central guiding principles of our work
by our partners, donors and political
ing the dignity of people is our guiding
are set out in the Common Statement
actors.
commitment. Thus, our aid projects
by Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe and
are designed to respect the culture and
Caritas International (2004) and in the
way of life of the people we are helping
Code of Conduct for the International
and promote self-sufficiency. We work
Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
hand in hand with the people in need,
and NGOs in Disaster Relief (1993),
not over their heads.
to which we, as a member of the ACT
Alliance, are committed:
In our interventions, we respect strict
neutrality and independence, especially in conflict regions. Humanitarian
aid must not be used as instruments of
political, economic or military interests. Its sole purpose is to prevent and
1. The humanitarian imperative comes first.
2. Aid is given regardless of the race, creed or nationality of the recipients and without
adverse distinction of any kind.
alleviate the suffering of people.
3. Aid will not be used to further a particular political or religious standpoint.
In all our operations and activities,
transparency is crucial – both towards
our donors and the people we help.
Through monitoring mechanisms on
all project levels, we ensure that the
funds entrusted to us are used correctly and cost effectively and reach the
4. We shall endeavour not to act as instruments of government foreign policy.
5. We shall respect culture and custom.
6. We shall attempt to build disaster response on local capacities.
7. Ways shall be found to involve programme beneficiaries in the implementation of relief
aid.
people who need help.
We help irrespective of religion,
skin colour and nationality –
quickly, reliably and effectively
Our humanitarian engagement is
8. Relief aid must strive to reduce future vulnerabilities to disaster as well as meeting basic
needs.
9. We hold ourselves accountable to both those we seek to assist and those from whom we
receive aid resources.
10. In our information, publicity and advertising activities, we shall recognize disaster
victims as dignified humans, not objects of pity.
rooted in the Christian commandment
to love one’s neighbour and the overall
29
Well set up ++
The external structures of
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe usually
Katastrophenhilfe also maintains
July 2013, initially in Nairobi, with
implements its aid projects in conjunc-
several regional offices. These are re-
an outreach post in Mogadishu, since
tion with local members of the ACT
sponsible for several countries and are
the security situation ruled out a fixed
Alliance church network and other
more long-term in character, to enable
structure in Somalia. ++ Team: Head-
local partner organisations. They are
them to support the strategic work in
ed by Jürgen Feldmann, 3 members
rooted in the local community and
the region.
of staff ++ Focus of work: Emergency
are respected because they know the
people’s needs and their culture.
and transitional aid for the displaced,
Alongside its practical operations, the
assistance to combat the impact of
local presence of Diakonie Katastro-
drought and food shortages.
Occasionally, however, disasters make
phenhilfe simultaneously signifies the
it necessary for us to operate in regions
protection of, and solidarity with, the
where we have no established partners
victims of wars and disasters – and
and/or in countries beset by recurring
allows their voices to be heard by a
natural disasters or long-term complex
wider public.
crises. In such situations, local aid
organisations can be weakened and
In 2013, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
overstretched in relation to their struc-
maintained external offices in nine
ture and human resources. In such
locations:
cases, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe de-
The team of the Regional Office in Nairobi.
ploys its own personnel and sets up its
own temporary structures, as it did in
AFRICA
Pakistan after the flood of 2010, or in
in Chad and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They accompany and
support local organisations and actors
CHAD, N’Djamena
CHAD
N´Djamena
response to the long-running conflicts
Project office ++ Team: Headed by
SOUTH SUDAN Juba/Rumbek
DR CONGO Goma
in the implementation of aid projects
KENYA
Nairobi
Herbert Beckmann, 3 members of staff
++ Set up in 2010 ++ Focus of work:
Aid for refugees from Mali in Niger
and Mauritania. In Chad: Support-
and compliance with international
ing internally displaced and refugees
standards of humanitarian aid.
from Darfur and the Central African
Republic as well as food security and
30
In accordance with its mandate, which
KENYA, Nairobi
disaster risk reduction. Emergency aid
as well as providing swift emergency
Regional office for Eastern and South-
for internally displaced in the Central
aid also includes support for recon-
ern Africa ++ Team: Headed by Clem-
African Republic.
struction and disaster risk reduction,
ens von Heimendahl, 14 members of
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe usually
staff ++ Set up in 1995 ++ Focus of
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, Goma
maintains its overseas’ offices for
work: Projects in Ethiopia and Kenya,
Project office ++ Team: Headed by
several years. As soon as it is practica-
following the severe drought and fam-
Charles Mampasu, 5 members of staff
ble and sensible to do so, it hands over
ine of 2011 as well as emergency aid
++ Set up in 2010 ++ Focus of work:
responsibility for ongoing programmes
for internally displaced and refugees.
Emergency aid and food security for
to partner organisations that, in the
Supporting partner organisations in
internally displaced and the local
interim, have been set up or reinforced.
eastern and southern Africa (Zimba-
population in Eastern Congo.
Alongside these project offices – with
bwe, Mozambique, Madagascar) ++
a limited lifespan and restricted to
To support the projects in Somalia, a
working in a specific region – Diakonie
separate project office was set up in
ABOUT US
PAKISTAN, Islamabad
Regional office ++ Team: Headed by
Chris Fischer, 64 members of staff,
with a field office in Peshawar for the
region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa++ Set
up in 2005 ++ Focus of work: Reconstruction following the flood of 2010 as
well as disaster risk reduction.
A big team for a difficult region: the staff of the
Regional Office for Latin America.
Small but committed: the project team in the
Democratic Republic of Congo
HAITI, Port-au-Prince
Project office ++ Team: Headed by
SOUTH SUDAN, Juba / Rumbek
Sylvie Savard, 24 members of staff
Project office ++ Team: Heimo Duttle,
++ Set up in 2005 ++ Focus of work:
country representative in Juba; health
Restoration of livelihoods following
programme in Rumbek, 130 members
the devastating earthquake of 2010.
of staff ++ Office in Rumbek set up
in 1998; office in Juba from January
Head of mission, Chris Fischer, at a house
inauguration in Pakistan.
2012 to December 2013 ++ Focus of
work: Emergency aid for victims of
This includes the reconstruction of
houses and the infrastructure. In addition, food security and disaster risk
LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARRIBEAN
reduction measures.
armed conflicts; running the health
stations in Rumbek and Cueibet.
HAITI
Port-au-prince
EUROPE
ASIA
COLOMBIA
GERMANY
Magdeburg
Bogotá
TURKEY
Istanbul
PAKISTAN Islamabad
COLOMBIA, Bogotá
GERMANY, Magdeburg
Regional office for Latin America ++
Flood aid office ++ Team: Headed by
Team: Headed by Silvia Östberg, 25
Stefan Schröer, 15 members of staff ++
members of staff, three of whom are
Set up in July 2013 ++ Focus of work:
TURKEY, Istanbul
attached to a partner organisation
Reconstruction aid following the flood
Regional office for West and Central
in Nicaragua ++ Set up in 2002 ++
of 2013 in collaboration with the
Asia ++ Team: Headed by Sema Genel,
Focus of work: Supporting internally
Diaconal Regional Associations (Diako-
6 members of staff ++ Set up in 2010
displaced in Colombia, suffering after
nische Landesverbände). This consists
++ Focus of work: Emergency aid for
several decades of armed conflict.
of financial assistance for families and
Syrian refugees in Jordan, Lebanon,
Emergency aid following natural di-
small businesses on an application
Iraq and Turkey as well as advice and
sasters. Partner support and capacity
basis, as well as intensive counselling
support for disaster risk reduction
building as well as disaster risk reduc-
and support, for example in applying
projects in the Palestinian Territories
tion measures in Central America and
for state support, insurance services or
and Afghanistan.
the Andes.
with regard to disaster risk reduction.
31
Quality assurance
and monitoring ++
Helping effectively
Quality within humanitarian aid is of
Needs assessment and project planning
Project implementation and monitoring
crucial importance. Ultimately, if disas-
In the case of major disasters and con-
The project partner is obliged to make
ter strikes, all that really matters are the
flicts, our partners and locally-based
regular reports on the various project
lives and survival of people. That is why
members of the ACT Alliance notify
stages and any problems that arise.
it is all the more important that our pro-
us of the emergency and the support
The responsible project officers check
jects are carried out in accordance with
required. They gather detailed on-the-
and make observations on these re-
the needs of those affected and that the
spot information on the situation, as-
ports. Project visits provide additional
aid reaches the places where it is most
sess what is most urgently needed and
monitoring of its implementation and
needed. So as to guarantee the quality
explore prospects for aid interventions.
ensure that activities can be adapted
of our aid, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe,
On the basis of this needs assessment,
if required. In regions, where we have
in co-operation with local partners and
they plan the essential and possible
our own offices, their staff members
the ACT Alliance, employs a mul-
relief measures, which are then agreed
provide project advice, support and
ti-phase project management approach,
on with Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe’s
monitoring.
which incorporates detailed planning,
project officers. In advance, the project
project support and evaluation as well
officers investigate the financing possi-
Evaluation and innovation
as standards for the quality of aid ser-
bilities from the annual project funding
At the end of the project, the partner
vices and supplies.
plans or, where necessary, from external
submits a final report, presenting and
funding.
providing an analysis of the implementation and outcomes of the measures.
The same procedure, with minimal variations, is used for all projects. An emer-
Co-operation agreement
In addition, Diakonie Katastrophenhil-
gency relief project in response to a
Before the aid measures can com-
fe regularly brings in external experts
natural disaster cannot be pre-planned
mence, the project officers draw up an
to examine and evaluate the projects.
to the same extent as the subsequent
approval document detailing the pro-
The lessons learned from this provide
reconstruction. There are also varia-
ject goals, target groups, measures and
us and our partners with valuable
tions in the sustainability of projects.
intended impacts and risks. This also
insights into how to further develop
Emergency aid is primarily concerned
includes a detailed costing and finan-
our work, for example, by applying
with securing immediate survival. In
cial plan. After approval by the Execu-
successful innovations elsewhere and
contrast the objective of disaster risk
tive Board of the Protestant Agency for
eliminating the sources of failure from
reduction projects is to achieve longer-
Diaconia and Development, a written
future projects.
term impacts.
co-operation agreement is drawn up
with the project partner. This specifies
all the rights and obligations of the
project partners, including the binding
quality standards.
32
ABOUT US
Monitoring mechanisms ensure that the aid reaches those in greatest need.
Monitoring mechanisms
recommendations on project manage-
Qfor our employees sent out to work
ment or documentation of finances.
overseas, compliance with the code
Through a range of instruments, we
Finally, providers of public funding,
of conduct of the global church aid
ensure that the quality of aid is as it
such as the German Ministry for Eco-
network ACT Alliance is a key com-
should be, and that donations and
nomic Co-operation and Development
ponent of the employment contract.
third-party funding are used correctly,
and ECHO, also carry out inspections
economically and responsibly in our
of projects they finance.
In cases, where irregularities nevertheless arise and there is a suggestion of
projects throughout the world.
Preventing and addressing corruption
corruption, we respond immediately
Project monitoring
In many countries, in which Diakonie
and meticulously: through following
At all stages of the project cycle, part-
Katastrophenhilfe works, corruption,
up suspicious cases, extraordinary
ners, project officers and the overseas’
fraud and embezzlement are wide-
audits, pay freezes or repayment de-
offices monitor that project funds are
spread. There is a wide range of rea-
mands all the way to the dissolution of
used properly and that expenditure re-
sons for this – wages that are too low,
contracts.
mains within budget provisions. This
also among customs officials, the po-
is done primarily through the submis-
lice and judiciary; legal loopholes that
sion of regular financial reports, which
leave scope for bribery and corruption;
are scrutinised thoroughly by Diakonie
and, not least, poor state control.
Katastrophenhilfe’s project officers
and controlling department. But mon-
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe is aware
itoring is not all they do – they also
of these problems and, some years ago,
advise partners on complex aspects of
introduced a number of initiatives to
financial administration and, in the
curtail the risk of corruption, embez-
long-term, improve their administra-
zlement and fraudulent use of funds –
tive capacities.
insofar as it is in our power to do so:
External auditing
Qs ince 2007, mandatory guidelines
The projects, overseas’ offices and
for the prevention of corruption
partner organisations are regularly
have been in place for all employees;
examined by independent external auditors. Within the scope of the annual
Qthe standards for the administration
audit of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe,
of project management and the
external German auditors also carry
Guidelines for Invitation and Se-
out spot-checks on projects in accord-
lection of Tenders contain detailed
ance with specific criteria and make
regulations intended to prevent
corruption at an early stage;
33
Together we are strong ++
Networks and co-operations
Active involvement in professional
and umbrella organisations
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe not only
ly for emergency aid in response to nat-
has 60 years of experience of human-
ural disasters and in conflict regions
itarian assistance but also a wide
such as Syria or Mali and for disaster
network of national and international
risk reduction. Diakonie Katastrophen-
Around 120 German aid organisa-
partners. For, global disasters and
hilfe is a member of the Humanitarian
tions have joined forces within the
crises can only be tackled by joining
Aid Co-ordinating Committee of the
Association of German Development
hands and pooling resources. Through
AA.
Non-Governmental Organisations
diverse alliances, we also provide peo-
(VENRO). Since 1995, VENRO has
ple in need with a voice and campaign
The German Federal Ministry for Eco-
been campaigning for human rights
within political and church circles for
nomic Co-operation and Development
and the conservation of natural
humanitarian issues.
(BMZ) primarily supports transitional
resources and global justice. Diakonie
development assistance interventions,
Katastrophenhilfe is actively involved
for example for the displaced people
in the humanitarian aid working
in Somalia or disaster risk reduction in
group.
International aid partners
The ACT Alliance, to which Diakonie
the Palestinian Territories.
VOICE (Voluntary Organisations in
Katastrophenhilfe and many of our local partners belong, has 140 members
ECHO (European Commission’s
Co-operation in Emergencies) is a coa-
throughout the world and is thereby
Directorate General for Humanitarian
lition of 83 European non-governmen-
one of the biggest humanitarian aid
Aid) has responsibility for the Euro-
tal humanitarian aid organisations.
coalitions worldwide. ACT stands
pean Commission’s humanitarian
VOICE is the key dialogue partner with
for Action by Churches Together and
aid. Working co-operation is regulated
the European Union on issues relating
mobilises around 1.1 billion euros for
through a partnership agreement,
to emergency aid and disaster risk
its work each year in 130 countries.
which allows Diakonie Katastrophen-
reduction as well as the principles and
The aim of the Alliance is to improve
hilfe to apply for funding for humani-
quality of humanitarian aid.
co-ordination of the churches world-
tarian aid projects.
wide aid and to make it more effective
APRODEV was founded in 1990 as
through compliance with shared quali-
the umbrella organisation of Protes-
ty standards.
tant aid organisations in 13 countries,
to represent their interests to the Euro-
We also have close working co-oper-
pean Union. Sixteen aid organisations
ation and ties with the Catholic aid
are currently members of APRODEV.
organisation Caritas international.
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe is active-
In addition, we co-operate on projects
ly involved in the humanitarian aid
with Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
working group.
Austria and the Diakonia in the
Czech Republic and Poland.
Within the Action Alliance for
Disaster Aid (Aktionsbündnis
Support through public funding
Katastrophenhilfe), the experienced
and globally active humanitarian
34
For some of its projects, Diakonie
organisations Caritas international,
Katastrophenhilfe receives public
German Red Cross (DRK), UNICEF
funding, without which humanitarian
and Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe have
assistance in many – particularly in the
joined forces, making it possible for
so-called “forgotten” – crisis areas of
them to appeal jointly in response to
the world would be nearly impossible.
major disaster and engage in humani-
The German Federal Foreign Office
tarian advocacy.
(AA) awards project funding, especial-
ABOUT US
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe in
Berlin ++ Executive board and staff
support local project partners in the
planning and implementation of relief
measures and monitor the various project phases, including the correct use
of funds provided. As well as close collaboration with partner organisations,
they gain first-hand impressions of the
situation and aid provision through
regular project visits. Our team is augmented by an officer for humanitarian
aid, who introduces key humanitarian
aid issues to the lobbying and advocacy work, and an expert in logistics and
security management.
The Executive Board (from left to right): Dr. Jörg Kruttschnitt, Prof. Dr. Claudia Warning, Rev. Johannes
Stockmeier, Rev. Cornelia Füllkrug-Weitzel, Tilmann Henke, Maria Loheide.
A liaison office in Brussels engages in
dialogue with the European Union
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Both organisations, Brot für die Welt –
on humanitarian issues and repre-
Together, Brot für die Welt – Protestant
Protestant Development Service and
sents the interests of Diakonie
Development Service and Diakonie
Diakonie Germany – Protestant Feder-
Katastrophenhilfe in dealings with
Germany – Protestant Federal Associ-
al Association, are led by between one
the relevant EU bodies.
ation form the Protestant Agency for
and three executive board members
Diaconia and Development e.V., which
respectively: the president and up to
External consultants support our work
also includes Diakonie Katastrophen-
two further executive board members.
on a needs-basis with respect to specific
hilfe. The organisation exclusively and
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe is at-
aspects of humanitarian aid such as
consistently pursues non-profit, char-
tached to the president’s office of Brot
disaster risk reduction, climate change
itable and church-related objectives in
für die Welt.
adaptation or vital emergency aid
the sense outlined in the paragraph on
following major disasters. They train
“tax-privileged purposes” within the
THE DIAKONIE KATASTROPHENHILFE TEAM
and advise our overseas’ offices and
German tax code. It is governed by an
In 2013, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
partners in order to further develop
executive board, the members of which
employed 24 paid members of staff
their capacities.
are appointed by the supervisory board
in Berlin – 21 of them full-time – and
for a six year term. It is chaired in
six on limited contracts. Their work is
General responsibilities such as person-
rotation by the president of one of the
co-ordinated by a management team
nel and financial administration and
two organisations, while the president
of three, including the head of depart-
public relations are covered propor-
of the other becomes his or her deputy.
ment, head of programme unit and
tionately by the Protestant Agency for
These roles are reversed after three
head of finance, administration and
Diaconia and Development e.V., with
years. The exact timing of this is deter-
controlling. The programme work is
a total of 38 employees, of whom ten
mined by the supervisory board. The
divided into the continental regions of
work full-time. Diakonie Katastrophen-
members of the executive board consti-
Africa, Asia and Europe, Latin Amer-
hilfe bears its proportion of the costs.
tute the management of the Protestant
ica and the Caribbean. The heads of
Public relations work performs a key
Agency for Diaconia and Develop-
the individual regions and the project
function, with 11.5 posts for Diakonie
ment. The executive board is subject to
officers have responsibility for the
Katastrophenhilfe. Through various
supervision by the supervisory board.
entire scope of projects from situation
channels, for example publications, the
It is a collegial body; regardless of this,
analysis, assessment and approval of
website or at public events, it provides
each member has his or her own areas
project applications to their conclu-
information about our work and helps
of responsibility.
sion and evaluation. They advise and
to raise funds for our aid projects.
35
Outlook ++Priorities and
challenges in 2014
60 years of Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe
planned expenditure on this amounts
In 2014, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
Support for victims of the Syria conflict
is celebrating its 60th anniversary.
The civil war in Syria, with over
At a worship service and special cer-
nine million refugees and displaced
emony in September, we will seek to
persons, is the worst humanitarian
bring to life the history and story of the
disaster for many years. Unfortunately,
aid agency of the Protestant Church
an end to the war in 2014 is just as un-
in Germany. Parallel to this, a confer-
likely as a greater political willingness
ence, involving representatives from
on the side the warring parties to open
the worlds of politics and international
up humanitarian corridors and allow
humanitarian aid will explore one of
in aid. It is, therefore, to be feared that
the key challenges of the future: how
violence and chaos will continue and
to extend local capacity building and
that the civilian population’s chances
empower local actors to enable them
of survival or future prospects will be
to take on a pivotal role in coping with
even further reduced. People’s liveli-
to seven million euros.
disasters?
As in previous years, we are planning
hoods and living environments are
Martin Keßler (50), Head of Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe.
to allocate the funds at our disposal
reaching and long term effects. Many
of the refugees are children, some of
in roughly equal parts to the areas of
36
being destroyed with increasingly far
whom are facing their third year with-
emergency relief, reconstruction and
many of those affected require exten-
disaster risk reduction. However, as
sive counselling and support. In close
out proper schooling.
last year clearly demonstrated, reality
co-operation with the relevant regional
The pressure on the families stay-
often demands that plans have to be
Diakonia Associations, the flood relief
ing in neighbouring countries with
changed at very short notice. A major
office of Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
friends and relations will continue to
disaster on the scale of the summer
will increase its efforts to seek out
increase just as much as the pressure
flood of 2013 in Central Europe is
affected households and, through
on their hosts themselves. Virtually no
enough to shift this ratio. This also
detailed advice, help them with the
one had expected to be forced to live
applies to the distribution of funds
often difficult procedures of applying
as refugees or, conversely, to provide
among the continents. The following
for various forms of support. Structural
shelter for years. Social tensions in the
priorities are planned for 2014:
damage will be assessed, administra-
neighbouring host countries, which
tive queries resolved and, ultimately,
have to share their infrastructure and
Flood relief in Central Europe
when approaches to all other state and
resources with refugees, will increase.
The largest proportion of our planned
insurance services have been exhaust-
Without international support, the ca-
funding will be used for reconstruction
ed, financial support granted. In close
pacity of these countries to provide for
following the flood in Central Europe.
co-operation with government offices
the refugees will be overstretched. In
Many of the households in the towns
and other aid agencies, the flood relief
2014, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe will
and villages along the Elbe, Danube
team in Magdeburg strives to process
continue to concentrate on supporting
and their tributaries, which suffered
applications swiftly so as to help those
the refugees and host communities in
significant damage, will only be able
affected comprehensively and sustain-
neighbouring countries while attempt-
to begin renovating their properties
ably with regard to the prevention or
ing to extend aid within Syria.
in spring 2014. It is apparent that
mitigation of future damage. In 2014,
ABOUT US
Hotspot: Central African Republic
mean little prospect of change. Hence,
presumably will not change in 2014,
Just as great a cause for concern is the
the number of refugees, both within
since there is little sign of potentially
situation in the Central African Repub-
and outside the country, remains just
successful international attempts at
lic. Marauding armed groups are caus-
as high as before. As a result, Diakonie
negotiation. For a number of years,
ing unimaginable suffering within the
Katastrophenhilfe will again do all it
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, through
country. At the moment, it is entirely
can in 2014 to alleviate the suffering
several partner organisations, has been
unclear how the situation will develop.
of those forced to endure a civil war
supporting the people in the country
In many places, but especially in the
that has now been going on for 20
and has now launched relief opera-
capital, Bangui, there have been recent
years.
tions for those displaced by the recent
outbreaks of ethnically and religiously
conflict. In order to ensure continued
assistance in this difficult context, we
of victims. Due to the poor security
Philippines – aid following
Typhoon Haiyan
situation, the partners of Diakonie
After the end of the emergency relief
Sudan in the coming year.
Katastrophenhilfe had to temporarily
phase, reconstruction on the Phil-
suspend their aid programmes. In
ippine islands of Leyte and Samar,
Alongside our work within the
2014, we will do everything we possi-
devastated by typhoon Haiyan, can get
context of this unfortunately large
bly can to support at least some of the
fully underway in 2014. The planned
number of serious disasters, Diakonie
approximately one million displaced
reconstruction will be carried out in
Katastrophenhilfe, in 2014, will also
people. But this can only be accom-
accordance with internationally prov-
work continuously to improve the
plished in the country once the secu-
en construction standards that help to
resilience of the population and the
rity situation has improved. Since this
reduce future storm damage and is also
ability of communities and local actors
remains uncertain, we will, as in 2013,
a component of disaster risk reduction.
to respond, strengthen the capacities
support refugees in the neighbouring
For, investment in disaster preparation
of our long-standing partners in the
countries. For example, in Chad, along
and protection – both as part of, and
medium term and extend our security
the border with the Central African
parallel to, the rehabilitation of peo-
management.
Republic, but also in Cameroon, where
ples’ livelihoods – is at the heart of our
increasing numbers of refugees are
aid for the Philippines.
motivated violence with large numbers
will increase our presence in South
arriving.
South Sudan facing an uncertain future
Somalia – transitional government
We observe the developments in
Similarly to last year, the situation in
South Sudan with enormous concern.
Somalia has not essentially changed.
At the end of December, there were
Although the country currently has a
violent confrontations between the
Martin Keßler
transitional government that is now
government and former members of
Head of Department
based in the country, the security sit-
the government who have transformed
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
uation is dreadful, with bomb attacks,
themselves into a rebel movement.
shootings and killings every day. The
A scenario, in which personal and
Al Shabaab militias, which many
political power interests combine – or
claimed had been defeated, are still
are intentionally combined – with
active underground and attempting
ethnic components. Fighting in the
to impede the stabilisation of society.
capital city, Juba, and in the state of
But, the course within the government,
Jonglei has been incredibly brutal.
itself, is also often unclear. For the
Hundreds of thousands of people have
Somali population, this continues to
been forced to flee, a situation that
37
Organisation chart
Protestant Agency for Diakonia and Development
Diakonia and Development Conference
(up to 112 Persons)
Development Service and
Humanitarian Aid Commitee
(18 Persons)
Diakonia
Commitee
(20 Persons)
Supervisory Board
(20 Persons)
Executive Board
(up to 6 Persons)
Diakonia Germany
Protestant Federal Association
Social Policy
Executive Board
President‘s
Division
Diakonia Germany
President
Law,
Social Economy
and Personnel
Executive Board
Finance
Organization
and International
Personnel Services
Executive Board
President‘s
Division
Bread for the
World
President
International
and Domestic
Programmes
Executive Board
Finance, Organisation and
International Personnel
Services
President‘s Division,
Bread for the World and
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
International and
Domestic Programmes
Tilman Henke
Cornelia Füllkrug-Weitzel
Dr. Claudia Warning
Results Management,
Internal Audit and
Compliance
Policy, Dialogue
and Theology
Programme
Coordination
Harriet Désor
Dr. Thorsten Göbel
Michael Kronenberg
Stabsreferat
Ergebnismanagement
und
General
Financial Control
Strategic
Management
Consultancy
Project
Harriet
Désor
Marc Biada
Dr. Wolfgang Zeese
Frank Rissmann
Verfahrenssicherung
38
Bread for the World
Protestant Development Service
Finance
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
Africa
GertN.N.
Kuchel
Martin Kessler
Karin Döhne
Organisation
Policy
Latin America
and Caribbean
Jerg Bosch
Dr. Klaus Seitz
Uwe Asseln-Keller
Public Relations
and Cooperation
Middle East, Caucasus,
Asia and Pacific
Dieter Pool
Ulrich Gundert
International Personnel
Services
Europe and Worldwide
Programmes
Elke Bosch
Brigitte Jacobs-Hombeuel
Oliver Märtin
IMPRINT
Published by Evangelisches Werk für
Diakonie und Entwicklung e.V.
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
Caroline-Michaelis-Straße 1
D-10115 Berlin
kontakt@diakonie-katastrophenhilfe.de
Photo credits Lukas Barth (p.13), Hermann Bredehorst
(p. 2, 3, 12, 35, 36); CASA (p. 14, 15); Diakonie
Katastrophenhilfe (p. 17, 27, 30, 31, 33); Roman Farkas (p.39);
Jens Grossmann (p. 11, 29, 33); Paul Jeffrey (p. 2, 10);
Thomas Lohnes (p. 1, 2, 6-7, 8, 9, 16, 28); Christoph Püschner
(p. 23, 25, 31); Antonia Zennaro (p. 18, 31)
Editors Angelika Söhne, Kirsten Schwanke-Adiang,
Thomas Sandner (senior editor)
With contributions by
Kerstin Beger, Cornelia Geidel, Martin Quack, Isabelle Uhe
Translation John Mc Laughlin
Cover photo Syrian refugees in a tented settlement in the
Bekaa valley in Lebanon. Nearly 250,000 refugees are registered here, most of them are spending already their second
winter in the camps on the plateau.
Design Media Company, Berlin
Print Retschdruck e.K., Nagold
Paper 100 % recycled paper
Article No. 219 1 0010 4 August 2014
FURTHER INFORMATION ON OUR WORK
on our website:
www.diakonie-katastrophenhilfe.de
Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
Caroline-Michaelis-Straße 1
10115 Berlin
Germany
Phone +49 (0) 30 65211 0
Fax +49 (0) 30 65211 3333
kontakt@diakonie-katastrophenhilfe.de
www.diakonie-katastrophenhilfe.de