What does the Sphere Handbook focus on?

The Sphere Handbook primarily focuses on establishing minimum standards in humanitarian response. It aims to improve the quality of humanitarian assistance and ensure that the fundamental rights of affected populations are respected and fulfilled. The Handbook provides guidelines that outline the essential actions that humanitarian actors must take to provide an adequate response to crises. This includes ensuring that the basic needs for water, food, shelter, health, and protection are met, emphasizing a rights-based approach and accountability to affected communities.

By concentrating on minimum standards, the Sphere Handbook serves as a benchmark for humanitarian action, promoting effective practices across different contexts. It is a crucial reference for humanitarian agencies, organizations, and workers who strive to enhance the effectiveness and accountability of their interventions, ultimately leading to better outcomes for those they aim to assist.