Managing External Relations - Disaster Management Center ...

Chapter 6
Training needs can be determined through surveys in which staff identify their past experiences and
their perceived needs. Needs can be ascertained through workshops on related subjects or through
analysis of an actual performance in a simulated situation. Videotaping a performance is the most
effective way to improve interview skills and allows the trainee to see his/her own need for improvement.
Other methods may include self-study courses to learn the ground rules and techniques and
watching experienced interviewers and interviewees on television.
(6) Establish a timeline for developing media contacts and training staff in media skills.
(7) Ensure visibility of UNHCR operations including proper identification of vehicles, buildings
and relief materials. Staff should be immediately identifiable as UNHCR personnel. (Items with
UNHCR logos are available from the UNHCR Catalogue of Emergency Response Resources.)
A heightened profile serves at least three important purposes:
♦ Contributes to a better dialog with beneficiaries, local authorities and partners
♦ Is an important security measure for staff and may help to protect property
♦ Shows the world that UNHCR is present, active and delivering services to refugees
Recommended reading for development of a media relations strategy
UNHCR Publications
Emergency Handbook, 1998.
Emergency Management Training Programme, ‘Media Skills—Background Paper,’ 1994.
Public Information, PI–1 Training Module, 1989.
The State of the World’s Refugees, The Challenge of Protection, 1993.
The State of the World’s Refugees 1997-98: A Humanitarian Agenda, 1997
‘UNHCR in the News—Media Relations Workshop for Senior UNHCR Staff’,
PI Section, 1998.
UNDP-DHA Disaster Management Training Programme Publications
Co-ordination Among International Organisations in Complex Emergencies, 1997.
The News Media and Humanitarian Action, 1997.
Funding and Donor Relations Strategies
In emergencies, UNHCR’s program needs, progress and problems must be communicated clearly and
directly to donors and potential donors so they are able to make the large financial commitments
necessary to support operations. In order to pursue the best possible approach, a donor relations
strategy should be developed in the first days of an emergency and maintained for the duration.
Use the guidelines below to develop your funding and donor relations strategy. Your strategy should
address methods and content of communications with donors, plan for regular communications with
FDRS, and include actions to promote funding for approved budgets.
(1) Establish goals and objectives for funding and donor relations. Build your strategy
based on UNHCR’s overall goals:
♦ Maintaining constructive relationships with donors
♦ Seeking active involvement of donors in missions and fundraising activities
♦ Making program needs, progress and problems clear to donors
♦ Demonstrating practical uses of donor funds
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