PHF

About PHF

INGOs working for disaster response in Pakistan formed an informal network by the name of Northern Areas Earthquake Relief Operation (NAERO), following the 2002 earthquake in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. The objective of the network was to coordinate response and rehabilitation activities of INGOs in the affected area.

This was a constructive and useful experience of networking, coordination, and resource sharing for INGOs, and motivated the group to create a more formal network. In June 2003, a two-day workshop with over 20 INGOs resulted in the formation of an acknowledged coordination body. All the leading INGOs working in disaster management signed on to an informal membership.

At the conclusion of this meeting the Pakistan-Humanitarian Forum was formed to coordinate and strengthen the efforts of International NGOs working in disaster management. The forum collectively represents INGOs to the Government of Pakistan, United Nations, and the larger humanitarian community, including the National Humanitarian Network of Pakistani NGOs and Community-Based Organizations.

Since its formation various INGOs have acted as Chair of the PHF, the main responsibilities being to coordinate communication among members, participate at meetings, and lead PHF advocacy initiatives. Former Chairs include Islamic Relief (UK) in 2004/2005, Church World Service-Pakistan/Afghanistan in 2005/2006, Oxfam GB in 2006/2007, and World Vision in 2007/2008. The PHF is currently chaired by Concern Worldwide. The current and immediate past chair of PHF sit on the Humanitarian Country Team, the Policy and Strategy Meetings in Peshawar, the Emergency Relief Fund Advisory and Review Boards, and the Pakistan InterAgency Standing Committee (IASC) Country Team, a coordination mechanism constituted by UN agencies, the Red Cross Movement, and international NGOs.

There are 53 member organizations of the PHF. 6 Organizations participate at PHF meetings as observers