Strengthening Humanitarian Response: DRC’s empowers partners on Referral Systems and service mapping

On June 5 and 6, 2025, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) conducted an important workshop in Bamenda, aimed at enhancing the capacities of its partners—Community Initiative for Sustainable Development (COMINSUD) and Green Partner Association (GPA)—under the First Line Local Assistance for swift humanitarian response (FLASH) project. Fourteen participants from both organizations gathered to delve into the intricacies of referral systems and service mapping, essential elements for effective humanitarian assistance.

The training was facilitated by a DRC protection expert, who defined referrals as the process of directing individuals to trusted resources, services, or experts that can provide vital support, guidance, or protection. This includes connecting individuals to specialized services, such as counseling, medical care, or law enforcement, addressing specific needs and concerns. The workshop underscored the importance of referrals in coordinating service delivery, ensuring safe and timely access to quality services, prioritizing individual safety, and maintaining confidentiality. By doing so, the workshop aimed to empower survivors to identify their needs and access support that meets those needs effectively.

A significant focus of the training was the concept of referral pathways, which provide a structured approach to linking individuals in need with appropriate services. Participants explored the guiding principles that should govern the referral process, emphasizing the need for confidentiality, informed consent, and respect for individual choices and decision-making capacities. Participants learned that maintaining confidentiality is crucial, requiring that client files be coded and stored in secure locations to protect sensitive information. Additionally, the training highlighted the importance of realistic communication, cautioning against raising expectations about available services.

By adhering to these principles, organizations like DRC, COMINSUD, and GPA can ensure a compassionate and respectful approach to humanitarian response, ultimately enhancing their ability to support survivors. This collaborative effort marks an essential step in building a more effective and humane humanitarian framework, equipping partners with the knowledge and tools necessary to address the complex challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the region.