Networks are an increasingly prominent feature of the modern world. In the humanitarian system – characterised as it is by interdependent relationships between autonomous actors and the lack of any central authority or agreed hierarchy – they can be found organising collective action and collaboration in a multitude of settings.
The aim of this research was to improve the humanitarian systems’ understanding of how national actors are currently engaged in networks. It is focused on Asia and draws on case study research completed in the Philippines, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. The research seeks to document the current nature of networking at the national level, to capture instances of achievement, attempting to draw conclusions about the factors influencing the success of national level networks.
Existing theoretical approaches have been used to inform the categorisation and analysis of the information gathered; in particular using a modified version of the Network Functions Approach (NFA). The idea of thinking about networks in terms of their functions has been used in a number of similar efforts to look predominantly at research and policy networks. The analysis also draws on other theoretical approaches, including from social network analysis and network governance theory, but is driven by the data gathered through the cases studies, rather than any given theoretical approach to networks.
The following eight success factors for national humanitarian networks emerged from the research:
- Successful networks demonstrate clear aims and goals, creating cohesion and mobilising action among network members.
- A network’s membership should be of a size and composition that creates cohesion and supports its functions.
- Organisational forms and structures should enable a network to perform its given functions.
- To succeed, national humanitarian networks and their supporters must identify sustainable funding models that protect network independence.
- For networks to function sustainably, they must develop and maintain clear, transparent governance structures, avoiding competition and duplication.
- National humanitarian networks can benefit from fostering external links, both nationally and internationally.
- Networks need strong leadership to succeed, but this must be based on consensus and humility.
- National humanitarian networks can benefit from adhering to and promoting humanitarian principles and standards.
