In today’s humanitarian landscape, the effective management of sensitive information is paramount. This report outlines the training carried out by the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) with its partners of the First Line Local Assistance for Swift Humanitarian Response (FLASH) Project, Community Initiative for Sustainable Development (COMINSUD) and Green Partners Association (GPA). This project is sponsored by European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid (ECHO) and Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), to assist displaced persons in hard-to-reach communities in the North West Region particularly in Bui and Momo Division. This workshop aimed at enhancing the capacity of staff in the context of Protection Information Management (PIM). The training focused on bolstering the understanding of partners on Data Protection Protocol, introduce best practices in documentation and archiving, and explore digital storage solutions. Over two days, participants are equipped to navigate the complexities of data protection, ensuring compliance with legal standards while safeguarding vulnerable populations. The two days training held on the 2nd and 3rd of July 2025 at the DRC office in Bamenda, expanded the knowledge of participants on light on critical aspects of data management.
On Day 1, the primary goal was to enhance staff capacity regarding the Data Protection Protocol. Participants were introduced to best practices for documentation and archiving, emphasizing the importance of maintaining accurate and secure records. Additionally, the session explores various digital storage solutions, ensuring that data tracking is efficient and secure. The Data Protection Protocol, which clarified the internal procedures for ensuring the confidentiality of sensitive data was emphasized on. This protocol aligns with international standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and ECOWAS laws, aiming to prevent harm to affected populations. Key Data Subject Rights are emphasized, including the right to information, access, objection, rectification, and erasure. Understanding these rights is crucial for staff as they engage in data collection activities. Group discussions facilitate reflection on how staff have implemented these rights and the challenges encountered, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Day 2 shifts focus to contextualizing the training within the organization’s existing frameworks. Participants reviewed and adapted Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) guidelines, Feedback and Complaints Response Mechanism (FCRM) Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), reinforcing the significance of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement in data management practices. The Protection Information Management initiative outlines eight core principles that guide data management practices. These principles advocate for population-centered actions, informed consent, data protection, and the capacity of personnel involved. Each principle contributes to a framework that prioritizes the well-being of affected populations while minimizing risks associated with data collection. The training encourages participants to engage in risk assessments and to develop mitigation strategies tailored to their context. Real-world scenarios are discussed to illuminate the potential consequences of poor data practices, reinforcing the critical importance of adhering to these principles.
The training program on Strengthening Protection Information Management equips staff with the knowledge and tools necessary for effective data handling in humanitarian contexts. By focusing on the Data Protection Protocol, Key Data Subject Rights, and the principles of protection information management, participants are better prepared to navigate the complexities of data collection and management. This initiative not only enhances compliance with legal standards but also fosters a culture of accountability and respect for the rights of individuals in vulnerable situations. As organizations continue to address the challenges of data protection, ongoing training and adaptation will be essential to meet the evolving needs of the communities they serve and better implement the FLASH project.
Community Initiative for Sustainable Development 