Mobile Technology in Emergencies: Efficient cash transfer mechanisms and effective two-way communication with disaster-affected communities using mobile phone technology

Author(s)
Hallow, D., Mitchell, J., Gladwell, C. and Aggiss, R.
Publication language
English
Pages
58pp
Date published
01 Feb 2012
Type
Research, reports and studies
Keywords
Accountability and Participation, Accountability to affected populations (AAP), Children & youth, Comms, media & information, Innovation
Organisations
Save the Children

Children across the world are affected by humanitarian emergencies and there is urgent need
for innovative approaches to tackling such crises more effectively. Mobile phones are increasingly accessible to those affected by crisis and can play a strategic role in the delivery of rapid, cost-effective, scalable humanitarian assistance. However, the full potential
of mobile phones to work as transformative tools in emergency response has not yet been realised.


This research identifies three key themes that should be addressed in order to change this situation: increasing accountability, building preparedness and prioritising collaboration. Making progress with each of these issues is dependent on a shared commitment from INGOs, MNOs and governments.