The northern region suffers from natural and human-made disasters, as well as protracted complex emergencies. The region is prone to flash floods, droughts, locust infestations, rock falls, landslides, avalanches and harsh winters. The shortened recovery period between emergencies means that populations are in constant need of relief. Furthermore, most of its impoverished populations are increasingly vulnerable and less able to cope with the effects of a protracted conflict. Compounding the already precarious situation is the fact that the region is also home to returnees from Iran and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from other parts of the country which makes effective coordination key to meeting the needs of affected populations.

 

The regional OCHA office aims to bring an added value to effectiveness of humanitarian assistance by addressing coordination, preparedness, response and advocacy issues. The office supports disaster response activities, such as monitoring, analyzing and reporting of humanitarian trends and issues, networking with development partners, national and international NGOs and regional institutions, and providing a strengthened information management.

 

During the months of the August – October 2009, the northern regional office’s priorities and specific activities shall be as follows:

 
(1)   develop humanitarian profiles in order to create a better understanding of humanitarian needs in the region

(2)   raise awareness of humanitarian needs in the region, strengthen the response and mobilize donor support.

(3)   support the establishment of a strong, coordinated effort on the part of the UN and its partners to address humanitarian needs in the region through a strengthened cluster system.

(4)   facilitating regional disaster preparedness/contingency planning