Humanitarian system-wide emergency activation: definition and procedures, transformative agenda reference document

The IASC Principals have agreed that major sudden-onset humanitarian crises triggered by natural disasters or conflict which require system-wide mobilization (so-called ‘Level 3/L3’ emergencies) are to be subject to a Humanitarian System-Wide Emergency Activation (henceforth referred to as ‘L3 activation’), to ensure a more effective response to the humanitarian needs of affected populations. This exceptional measure will only be applied for exceptional circumstances where the gravity justifies mobilization beyond normally expected levels, while recognising the complementarity of humanitarian systems.

This series of reference documents has been produced by the IASC Working Group and serves as guidance on implementing the Transformative Agenda in Level 3 emergencies.