Emergency Plan of Action (EPoA) Bosnia and Herzegovina: Population Movement
Emergency Appeal n° MDRBA011 Glide n° OT-2018-000078-BIH Expected timeframe: 12 months Date of launch: 8 December 2018 Expected end date: 8 December 2019 Category allocated to the of the disaster or crisis: Orange Appeal budget: CHF 3,311,347 DREF allocated: CHF 300,000 Number of people to be assisted: 7,600 migrants every Total number of people affected: 23,000 two weeks and 1,500 households from host community Provinces affected: Una-Sana Canton, Provinces targeted: Una-Sana Canton, Herzegovina- Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, Sarajevo Canton Neretva Canton, Sarajevo Canton (Federation of BiH), (Federation of BiH), Brcko District, Republika of Brcko District, Republika of Srpska Srpska Host National Society(ies) presence (n° of volunteers, staff, branches): Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina (RCSBiH) has 7,082 volunteers, 247 staff, 153 branches Red Cross Red Crescent Movement partners actively involved in the operation: Croatian Red Cross, German Red Cross, Italian Red Cross, Swiss Red Cross, Turkish Red Crescent Society, Red Crescent Society of the United Arab Emirates Other partner organizations actively involved in the operation: IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, Caritas, World Vision, Emmaus MFS, MSF, Danish Refugee Council
This Emergency Plan of Action provides further details on the planned action of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) support provided through the Emergency Appeal to the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina (RCSBiH) to deliver assistance and support to up to 7,600 migrants every two weeks for a period of 12 months, as well as 1,500 households from local community for a period of two months.
This Emergency Plan of Action provides a description of the migration situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, an overview of RCSBiH and other actors on the ground as well as on the current response to the migrants’ needs. It also gives details on the planned action, which focuses on the following areas of focus and strategies of implementation: shelter (Non- Food Items – NFIs); livelihoods and basic needs; health; water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH); Protection1; Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)2 as well as building the capacities of the National Society.
The planned response reflects the current situation and information available at this time of the evolving operation and will be adjusted based on further developments and more detailed assessments.
1 Protection component is streamlined under the Area of Focus Migration as the activities will mainly focus on Assistance and Protection provision to migrants. 2 Disaster Risk Reduction is moved under National Society Capacity Building as the direct beneficiaries of the activities are defined to be the staff and volunteers of RCSBiH P a g e | 2
A. Situation analysis
Description of the disaster Countries throughout the Balkans experienced a significant influx of migrants in 2015 and 2017. Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) however, not being on the main migratory route, was only marginally affected at this time. Since the beginning of 2018, the country has seen a significant increase in the numbers of arrivals, with migrants arriving via two different routes: one through Albania and Montenegro; and the other through the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia or Bulgaria, and Serbia. Entry points to BiH are in the areas of Trebinje, Foča and Višegrad in Republic of Srpska (RS) and Goražde in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH). The majority of people arriving head towards Sarajevo and Una-Sana Canton and seek to enter the European Union through Croatia.
After an initial increase in the number of migrants in the first months of 2018, the number of new entries stabilised between May and August with an average of 70-100 people arriving Source: Refugee Aid Serbia each day. The movement of migrants intensified again in the following months reaching 100-150 of new arrivals per day in September and October. Since the beginning of 2018 more than 23,000 migrants have entered the country - 45 times more than the number registered over the same period in 2017. The most common countries of origin are Pakistan (33%), Iran (16%), Syria (12%), Afghanistan (12%), Iraq (9%) and Libya (3%) while smaller numbers of migrants also come from Palestine, Algeria and Morocco (Source: BiH Service of Foreign Affairs). It is worth noting that in the absence of official documents the country-of-origin is self- declared. The chart below shows the monthly figures of registered migrants from 1 January to 31 October 2018.
6000 5057 5000
4000 3710
3000 2489 2242 2295 2293 2000 1801
1000 479 598 237 0
Source: Service Foreigners’ Affair of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Due to the nature of the migration flow in BiH, and throughout the Balkans, it is not possible to give precise gender and age breakdown of migrants. As a result, the data below estimates based on data collected in two reception centres (Borici and Bira in Una-Sana Canton) by Red Cross staff and volunteers. According to this, it is assumed that out of the 23,000 registered migrants, 84 per cent are men, six per cent women and ten per cent are children.
After entering BiH, migrants have the right to register their intention to seek asylum – doing so grants allows new arrivals 14 days before they have to either formally apply for asylum or leave the country. Between January and 25 November 2018 92 percent of migrants entering BiH registered their intention to claim asylum, however only 1,322 formal asylum applications were subsequently received. The low number of the formal asylum applications suggests that the majority of new arrivals do not intend to stay in BiH, but plan to continue with their journey towards the EU.
Migrants are currently accommodated in ten main centres, the majority of which are managed by IOM. Given the complex administrative structure of the country, it has been challenging to identify suitable locations and buildings for shelter that could be provided by either the central or the entity Governments. As a result, IOM, mandated by the Central P a g e | 3
Government to take a lead in shelter provision (among other services), has entered into rental agreements with private owners leading to payment of significant sums in rental fees on a monthly basis. This current solution for shelter, especially in Una-Sana Canton, is highly dependent on IOM’s available funds and the amenability of private landlords.
The table below shows the locations, names, occupancy and potential capacity of migrants’ centres in BiH as of 25 November 2018.
Location Name of the center Current occupancy Potential capacity Una-Sana Canton, Borići – Bihać 1,000*3 530 Federation of BiH Bira – Bihać 440 1200 Miral – Velika Kladuša 300 500 Hotel Sedra – Una-Sana Canton 430 430 Sarajevo Canton, Ušivak – Sarajevo 520 800 Federation of BiH House for All – Sarajevo 100 100 Immigration Center – East Sarajevo 115 115 Asylum Center – Delijaš 154 154 Herzegovina- Refugee Center – Salakovac 250 250 Neretva Canton, Federation of BiH Republika of Srpska Duje – Doboj East 30 30 Total 3,339 4,109 Source: UNHCR, Red Cross of Bosnia and Herzegovina
As shown in the map on Page 1, there have been two main routes for people migrating to or through BiH: from Montenegro entering BiH around Trebinje, and from there on to Sarajevo and Una-Sana Canton; and from Serbia entering BiH around the towns of Višegrad and Goražde, and from there on to Una-Sana Canton via Sarajevo. Over 2018 these routes have shifted north with the majority of migrants entering BiH from Serbia around the towns of Bijeljina and Zvornik, going on to Tuzla (or Sarajevo) and then to Una-Sana Canton. The closest settlements to entry points in to Croatia, Una-Sana Canton and the City of Bihać are the main destinations within BiH for the majority of migrants. In lieu of official data, UNHCR estimates there are currently 4,500-6,000 migrants in BiH. There is no official system in place to provide exact data. Tight control at the border makes it hard for migrants to cross into Croatia, creating bottlenecks on the BiH side, with Una-Sana Canton the area currently hosting the largest number of migrants in BiH.
Government institutions have limited capacity to respond to the recent influx of people. The Government of BiH developed an Operational plan in 2015, however this has never been implemented as it was based on the scenario of BiH being a transit country with no pro-longed stay. Although evidence suggests the majority of people migrating through BiH do not intend to stay in the country for more than a few days, with tightened border controls and winter arriving, it is becoming more and more challenging for people to continue their journey beyond BiH. As a result, people are spending increasing amounts of time in accommodation centres in BiH, a trend which is only expected to increase further over the course of the winter. To adapt the response to this situation the Government has developed a new Operational Plan, which is yet to be activated, and the humanitarian response remains heavily dependent on the international humanitarian community.
Summary of the current response
Overview of Host National Society The complex administrative structure of the country is mirrored in the internal structure of the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina (RCSBiH). The administrative and governmental structure of the country consists of three entities: The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2.22 million people and 514% of territory); the Republika of Srpska (1.23 million people and 49% of territory) and the BiH District of Brcko (83,516 people). Reflecting this, the National Society also has three entities: The Red Cross of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Red Cross of the Republika of Srpska and the Red Cross of BiH Brcko District.
3 The migrants accommodated in Borici have been reallocated to Bira TRC due to the temporary closure of the facility for reconstruction purposes. 4 Country profile from the Embassy of Spain. P a g e | 4
The National Society has 150 bodies structured as shown below:
All but one of the ten migrant centres are located in the territory of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and most of the activities in response to the migration situation are correspondingly implemented by the Red Cross of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. There are three main branches of the National Society involved in the response: Red Cross Branch of City of Bihać, Red Cross Branch of Una-Sana Canton, and Red Cross Branch of Mostar.
In Una-Sana Canton the National Society has participated in the response at centres in Borići, Hotel Sedra and Velika Kladusa informal settlement. In Herzegovina-Neretva Canton the NS has supported in the Mostar (Salakovac) area with the provision of food and non-food items (textile and hygiene items) and first aid. Restoring Family Links (RFL) services have been provided with support from ICRC and the DREF operation.
In the City of Bihać, up to 40 volunteers have been involved provision of food, PSS, FA, and distribution of hygiene kits and other NFIs. Many of these volunteers have also been working full time since the beginning of the response (for five months) with kitchen staff hours running from 7am to 10pm).
RCSBiH assistance provision in details are as follow.
• Food provision and distribution RCSBIH has been providing food in all centres where accommodation is managed by the government, namely in Bihac and Salakovac. In Velika Kladusa camp site, RCSBiH took over food provision in July 2018 for one month, and resumed the service on a permanent basis in September. RCSBiH expanded food provision in the newly opened centers in Bira (Bihać), as well as in Hotel Sedra and Miral production hall (Velika Kladusa). Food is also being distributed to migrants residing near Ključ. Daily food provision consists of two warm meals and one dry meal per person. Currently RCSBiH produces food for up to 3,000 migrants daily. Since the beginning of the crisis the Red Cross has distributed 491,496 hot meals and 313,041 lunch packs.
• Hygiene items distribution RCSBiH is mandated by the Government to provide hygiene parcels to migrants, which RCSBiH has been fulfilling since the beginning of the crisis, following the Sphere standards and using a kiosk system for distribution. Hygiene items are being provided in, Bira, Velika Kladuša, Hotel Sedra and in Salakovac and were provided in Borići until it was open.
• NFIs (mostly blankets, mattresses, sleeping bags and clothes) NFIs are distributed at the same locations as hygiene items, as well as being provided to people migrating through transit areas. RCSBiH supported the efforts of the Government to set up the centre in Salakovac by providing heaters. NFIs were partially procured through DREF and the Swiss Red Cross project. Significant quantities were also donated by the Italian Red Cross, Turkish Red Crescent, German Red Cross and Croatian Red Cross. Other humanitarian organizations have also made NFI donations to the Red Cross, including UN agencies, such as UNHCR and UNICEF.
• First aid interventions RCSBiH was providing first aid in Borići, on a daily basis when other medical teams were not present. Medical teams of other humanitarian agencies visited the Borići center once per day for two hours. In the remaining time RCSBiH First Aid teams filled the gap. The teams served 20-40 cases per day, depending on the day. Borići centre, however, was closed in the first half of December for reconstruction works and migrants were temporarily relocated to Bira TRC, which had been opened in the second half of October 2018. RCSBiH has shifted its service provision, including First Aid to the new centre with its full capacity that had been shared between the two facilities before the closure. In Mostar, RCSBiH provided first aid until primary health care services were established locally.
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As part of the winterization efforts, RCSBiH has been providing winter clothing to migrants in all locations, including at the newly opened centre in Ušivak. Most migrants arrive unprepared and unequipped for winter conditions, and provision of suitable winter clothing is a priority recognised by all humanitarian actors participating in the response. RCSBiH has also provided winterized sleeping bags and blankets and will continue to do so throughout winter. These activities could be intensified in the last two months thanks to generous support from partner National Societies and IFRC.
Overview of Red Cross Red Crescent Movement in country
The IFRC Regional Office for Europe (ROE), based in Budapest, has provided technical support to the National Societies affected by population movement since 2015. In response to the migration situation, the IFRC launched seven emergency appeals (for Serbia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Hungary), and has supported several operations through the DREF. The Europe Regional Operational Plan for 2019 includes “national chapters” on the Area of Focus 7 – Migration for Croatia, Italy, Montenegro, Serbia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Hungary to ensure consistency and coordination of country operations and support National Societies in longer-term programming.
As RCSBiH has been outside the main migratory route, the National Society has not previously sought support in addressing the needs of migrants. Changes in trends and the migration context in the country, have now prompted RCSBiH to prepare short- and mid-term response plans.
A DREF operation was approved and started on 28 June 2018 for three months. The prime focus of the operation was food provision and hygiene parcels in three different locations. Because of the changing environment, the RCSBiH was given a no-cost extension in September. The DREF operation finished on 28 November 2018. An Operational Review was conducted in October 2018, the outcomes of which was expected to substantiate a longer-term plan, which was expected to be developed in the modality of an Emergency Appeal.
Large numbers of live mines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) are still present along the migration routes - working with ICRC and the Mine Action Centre in BiH, RCSBiH has distributed mine awareness flyers warning of the danger of mines and UXO in the areas of Trebinje (south BiH), Velika Kladuša, Cazin and Bihać (north-west BiH). Flyers are being distributed by RC volunteers, who are also sticking up posters in the border areas. The same flyers have been distributed in cooperation with the Montenegro Red Cross on their side of the border.
After an initial assessment, Restoring Family Links (RFL) services have been established in Una-Sana Canton with the support of ICRC and RCSBiH Tracing Services. So far there is no need to scale up the service in that area. ICRC has also supported RCSBiH in volunteer mobilization by providing a house in Bihać and covering costs for volunteers from other parts of the country travelling to and staying in the city.
In addition to the ICRC and IFRC, the National Society has received financial and in-kind support from multiple other RC partners who have long-standing partnerships with RCSBiH and/or have been long present in the country. These include:
• Croatian Red Cross donated NFIs and has also offered human resources to support RCSBH. • German Red Cross donated a mobile kitchen, 1,000 beds, 150 blankets, 200 clothing items, 500 sleeping bags, four tents, kitchen inventory and other related items. • Italian Red Cross made two donations of NFIs consisting of 5,000 winter clothing items, blankets, mats, hygiene packs and one mobile kitchen. • Swiss Red Cross supported RCSBiH through a project providing food in Salakovac (Mostar) and NFIs in Una-Sana Canton. Swiss Red Cross also approved a Cash Transfer Programme for local people in host communities, to reduce tensions towards migrants for a period of two months (January-February 2019). Swiss Red Cross remains committed to support RCSBiH in further activities. • Turkish Red Crescent is in the process of opening a delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and has made a significant donation of 330 tents, two mobile kitchens, 9,000 blankets and 1,000 kitchen sets, and also plans to procure sanitary containers locally. • The Red Crescent Society of the United Arab Emirates donated food parcels to be distributed at the beginning of the crisis, when donor interest was still low, making this contribution of the Red Crescent Society of the United Arab Emirates of particular importance.
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Overview of non-RCRC actors in country • The central Government of BiH is taking the lead role in controlling the increased influx of migrants. The Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees of BiH has activated its refugee centre in Salakovac (Mostar). The Ministry of Security is in charge of the Delijaš Asylum Centre and detention centre in East Sarajevo. The Ministry of Security has also established a centre in Ušivak with IOM being in charge of the management of the centre and a range of partners providing support services. The humanitarian response relies mostly on the humanitarian community, with UN agencies the biggest stakeholders. • The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is the main stakeholder and implementor of the majority of international assistance. As well as supporting food provision implemented by RCSBiH in Una-Sana Canton, IOM also provides shelter for migrants by renting Hotel Sedra, Bira and Miral facilities in Una-Sana Canton as well as water and sanitation facilities in areas, where there is no established infrastructure. • UNHCR is in charge of health care provision to migrants, as well as providing protection and accommodation in hostels and private accommodation to vulnerable people. RCSBiH received two field warehouses, six housing units, 7,000 blankets, 500 sleeping bags, 700 mats, 6,100 clothing items, 400 bags and other related items in smaller quantities from UNHCR. • The Mayor of Bihać, with the support of the local RC Branch, has made a former student dormitory in Borići, near Bihać available as additional shelter for migrants. • Pomozi.ba, a local volunteer group, has organized food distribution for migrants sleeping rough in Sarajevo. They are also in charge of food provision in Ušivak, which was opened in October 2018. • Danish Refugee Council and MSF are providing health care to migrants in Una-Sana Canton. MSF also provided one container which is used by RC first aid teams in Borići. • MFS Emmaus provided food in Velika Kladuša until September. In addition, they host vulnerable groups in Duje, near Doboj, a total of less than 30 persons.
Coordination mechanisms Movement coordination is maintained by RCSBiH with the support of IFRC ROE. So far there have been two Movement Coordination meetings held with all partners present in the country with the aim of analysing the situation and coordinating support provided to the National Society. The first coordination meeting was held during development of the Emergency Plan of Action for the DREF operation, and a second meeting was held to inform Movement partners about priorities for the upcoming Emergency Appeal and to harmonize plans for the continuation of support. Further coordination meetings will be held in the course of the implementation of the Emergency Appeal Plan of Action, and RCSBiH will continue to maintain bilateral communications with all partners.
As well as coordinating with Movement partners, RCSBiH also participates in coordination meetings organized by UNHCR and IOM on a bi-weekly basis. Formerly organized by the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of BiH, responsibility for coordinating these meetings has been handed over to UNHCR and IOM. All stakeholders, including RCSBiH, are invited to participate. In addition, similar coordination meetings are held in Una-Sana Canton and Salakovac, which the respective RC Branches also participate in. RCSBiH also maintains close cooperation with the Ministry of Security.
Needs analysis, targeting, scenario planning and risk assessment
Needs analysis
Situation at centres of organized accommodation
Sarajevo Area: Asylum centre Delijaš, Immigration centre East Sarajevo, House for All Approx. 154 migrants reside in the Asylum Centre in Delijaš (Trnovo municipality) managed by the Ministry of Security of BiH. The centre (situated around 40 km from Sarajevo) is the only facility in BiH, where migrants with international protection are accommodated. The Delijaš Asylum Centre continues to work almost at full capacity. Food is provided by the Ministry of Security in accordance with recommendations made by a nutritionist at the Sarajevo Federal Institute for Public Health. Food is also provided for irregular migrants placed in the Immigration Centre in East Sarajevo. There are enough resources to cover food needs as well as basic hygiene items for the next six months. Primary health care, including pregnancy care, is provided both at the Asylum Centre in Delijaš and in the Immigration Centre in East Sarajevo. Water and sanitation is provided in both centres, as well as basic hygiene necessities. An additional location in Sarajevo, called House of All (HoA), managed by independent volunteers, offers accommodation to between 70 and 100 migrants in Sarajevo, largely to families, and provides a number of services to residents.
Sarajevo area - Ušivak In October the Service for Foreigner’s Affairs (SFA) with the support of IOM opened the Transit/Reception Centre (Ušivak TRC) in Ušivak, Hadžići Municipality in Sarajevo Canton. The site had the capacity to accommodate 520 migrants by the end of the October and is being expanded gradually to shelter 800 people at full capacity. All migrants arriving to Sarajevo are registered now only in Ušivak, giving an important role to this centre in the area Three meals P a g e | 7 per day are prepared and distributed by Aid Brigade/Collective Aid with the support of Pomozi.ba in the TRC. Access to primary healthcare is provided through a private clinic supported by UNHCR. In the meantime, negotiations are ongoing with the Public Institution of Health Care Centre of Sarajevo Canton. IOM provide packages with NFIs to all newly arriving migrants. Replenishment and further distribution of other NFIs is done by Pomozi.ba. The Ušivak TRC has 20 showers and 55 toilets. Drinking water is provided through the public water supply. In the coming period an additional eight showers and eight toilets will be installed. IOM ensures cleaning and maintenance of the site, including regular cleaning of sanitation facilities.
Mostar: Salakovac Refugee centre The Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of BiH activated the Refugee Centre in Salakovac near Mostar and accommodated around 250 migrants during May, which is the full capacity of the facility. Although the number of migrants residing in the centre was decreasing gradually in the summer months, with the temperature dropping, more migrants, mainly families, remain in the centre. It is currently operating at full capacity. Health care is provided by the local health centre, funded by the Ministry of Security. Red Cross regularly distributes food, hygiene items and other NFIs, such as blankets, clothes, mats etc. The centre is a solid building, with all necessary infrastructure in place.
Una Sana Canton (Una-Sana Canton) – Bihać: Borići The Borići Dormitory - allocated by the Mayor of City of Bihac – sheltered up to 1,000 migrants arriving to Una-Sana Canton. Although it used to be a solid building, it had been partially destroyed and out of use for a long period of time, therefore conditions were not suitable for longer-term accommodation. With the winter arriving a solution needed to be found urgently, which IOM has managed by renting a former factory called Bira. At the time of the launch of the Emergency Appeal Borići was closed down temporarily for reconstruction and migrants accommodated there were reallocated to Bira TRC. Together with the migrants all humanitarian organizations, including RCSBiH, shifted their services to this new facility. Following the completion of the constructions works, number of migrants suitable for the capacity of the centre will be moved back to the Borići Dormitory from Bira TRC.
Una Sana Canton (Una-Sana Canton) – Bihać: Bira Tranzit Refugee Centre In October 2018, IOM and SFA opened the Bira TRC in Bihać, Una-Sana Canton. With the move of the migrants from Borići, this centre is now functioning at full capacity. RCSBiH is providing three meals per day to people staying here with the support of IOM, as well as First Aid. Prior to their voluntary relocation to more formal shelter and accommodation in Bira TRC, migrants are screened for medical needs and vulnerabilities, including skin diseases. At the Bira TRC, IOM installed toilets and showers, some of which are inside the facility, and some outside for use by those waiting to be registered. All are connected to the public sewage system, meaning there is no need for septic tanks and related maintenance.
Una Sana Canton (Una-Sana Canton) – Hotel Sedra TRC In July 2018, IOM opened the Hotel Sedra Transit/Reception Centre (Sedra TRC) in Cazin Municipality in Una-Sana Canton. The Centre has a maximum capacity of 430. The Sedra TRC is primarily for families with children who are prioritized for voluntary relocation from other sites. Red Cross Branch of Una-Sana Canton is providing food at this location with the support of IOM. Danish Refugee Council together with local healthcare centres is paying visits to Hotel Sedra and is providing medical care. The building has necessary infrastructure to support water and sanitation needs of accommodated population.
Una Sana Canton (Una-Sana Canton) – Velika Kladuša: Miral TRC Through an agreement with the Prime Minister of Una-Sana Canton and the owner of the Miral facility in Velika Kladuša, emergency shelter is being provided to approximately 740 people, who were relocated from the Maljevac border crossing point and from the makeshift camp near Velika Kladusa. IOM and the Red Cross Branch of Una-Sana Canton are providing emergency assistance, including food, portable toilets, showers, and non-food items (matrasses and sleeping bags). Whether this temporary arrangement could become an official TRC is subject to negotiations and a decision of relevant parties (facility owner, MoS, and the donor). MSF maintains a mobile medical team three days per week in Velika Kladusa, which provides medical consultations and makes referrals when needed. There are two showers and two toilets within the facility, as well as ten portable toilets and a container with three showers and three toilets installed in front of the facility. Drinking water is supplied through the public drinking water system.
Additionally, an unidentified number of refugees and migrants, believed to be somewhere between 1,000 to 2,500 and fluid in number, are privately accommodated or squatting in Una-Sana Canton. A number of small squats also exist in Sarajevo and limited numbers of migrants in the transit areas have been observed sleeping rough in other locations, such as Tuzla.
According to information received from IOM, funds have been secured to support food provision at all the formal accommodation centres until the end of March 2019, including Salakovac, which is currently covered by the Swiss Red Cross. RCSBiH remains an implementing partner to IOM in Una-Sana Canton in food provision, while Pomozi.ba provides food in Ušivak. Increasing number of migrants have been observed in the transit areas in other parts of BiH. In these areas there are no humanitarian organizations providing even basic assistance. Currently people in these areas P a g e | 8 are supported by local volunteer groups, which is inconsistent and insufficient, and there is a great need for a formalized provision of basic assistance.
Health remains a challenge which has not been addressed systematically, but rather on a location by location basis. UNHCR and the Ministry of Security are covering the costs of primary healthcare in Mostar (Salakovac) and Hadžići (Ušivak), while the Ministry of Security provides healthcare for two government–led centers in East Sarajevo and Delijaš. In Una-Sana Canton, UNHCR, together with MSF and DRC provides health care in cooperation with local health centers. However, doctors are only present for an hour during weekdays and significant gaps remain, especially for migrants who are have minor injuries but not in need of hospital treatment. First aid teams from the Red Cross were at Borići Dormitory every day for eight hours, when it was still open. The service has been moved to Bira since then. Migrants who try to cross the border during the day often come back injured. Taking care of those kind of injuries removes a large burden from the health system in Una-Sana Canton. There is no healthcare provision for people migrating through the transit areas.
RCSBiH provides hygiene items for migrants in formal accommodation, with the support of other stakeholders. Hygiene parcels are distributed using the kiosk system and following the Sphere standards. Even though significant quantities of items have been distributed, the need to continue and upscale this activity remains high. Although there are sufficient sleeping bags in stock to cover the winter months, there will be a need for replenishment as contingency for possible unexpected increases in the number of migrants over the course of 2019. Projections for the coming year, suggest the number of new arrivals in 2019 will be double those of 2018.
Targeting This plan of action aims to provide food, hygiene and non-food items to migrants accommodated in two reception centers: Salakovac and one other centre in Una-Sana Canton. Taking the planned maximum capacity of the centres and the operational capacity of the RCSBiH into account, this plan of action aims to support 1,000 migrants in two centres in the form of food for the period of nine months, and of hygiene and other NFIs for the period of 12 months.
RCSBiH also plans to continue providing first aid to migrants in Bira TRC in Una-Sana Canton. (According to the original plan, the teams were to continue with their service in Borići and Bira TRCs, however with the temporary closure of the Borići centre and the increased number of migrants in Bira TRC, both teams will be operational in the latter.) Based on current projections at least 1,600 people will have access to first aid in this centre (20-40 interventions are expected to be provided per day). Everybody in need of first aid in the centre will be able to access treatment.
Given the nature of the situation and the high fluctuation of migrants in the centres the number of target beneficiaries in the above centres are defined based on the maximum capacity of the centres.
In addition, the EPoA aims to support migrants transiting the country in areas outside the formal accommodation centres. People transiting these areas have no access to basic assistance, therefore RCSBiH plans to cover basic needs through the deployment of mobile teams. As it is challenging to give precise numbers of people staying in the organized centres, it is even more challenging to define the number of people outside these sites. Therefore, the defined number of 5,000 people to be reached by this component is based on an assumption of reaching approximately ten per cent of the 50,000 people forecast to arrive in BiH as migrants in 2019.
In addition to the above services RCSBiH will ensure access to information, psychosocial support, RFL, hygiene promotion and protection services for people in the centres and areas where it is working.
As well as supporting people who are migrating, RCSBiH will implement a cash transfer programme for vulnerable people in host communities around the areas affected by population movement, namely Bihac, Cazin and Mostar, where RCSBiH is already implementing this programme from December 2018 – January 2019 with the support of Swiss Red Cross. This cash transfer programme will target 1,500 households in six communities (Sarajevo, Kljuc, Mostar, Velika Kladusa, Bihac, Cazin) for an additional two months starting in April 2019 (if conditions allow, the start date may move earlier, i.e. March 2019).
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Scenario planning Given the nature of the situation and the experience gained in other countries along the Balkan route in the last three years, it is difficult to forecast how the situation will evolve. There are many factors that can influence the movement of migrants, often based on governmental decisions which are not well publicized in advance. The reliance on quickly changing, inconsistent and sometimes unreliable information makes planning for the future challenging.
The current forecast for new arrivals to BiH in 2019 is twice as many as in 2018 (information received from UNHCR and from the Government). Furthermore, the border with Croatia is expected to remain closed and as a result, the average length of stay in BiH is likely to increase, with the knock-on effect of increasing the overall number people migrating through the country at any one time who are in need of accommodation and basic services.
Based on the last six months of operations in BiH the following possible scenarios can be proposed:
- Worst case: The number of people stranded in BiH increases due to their inability to cross the border into Croatia during the winter. The authorities do not get involved in the humanitarian response. Agreements with IOM for food distribution expire and no alternative solution can be found. No agreement is reached to temporarily relocate migrants to warmer facilities. Tension increases with local people. Safety is not guaranteed to RC teams. Interest from donors decreases. The National Society has to reduce or cease the provision of services. - Likely case: Number of people stranded in BiH increases due to strict border control on the Croatian side of the border and challenges presented by winter weather. Authorities remain uninvolved. Agreement with IOM stays in service and opportunities for diverse response option are explored. Advocacy to temporarily relocate the most vulnerable migrants to southern areas works for most vulnerable people. Tension between citizens and migrants remains limited. Migrants are stranded in Bihać and other areas until March-April due to winter. There will be some gaps in accommodation, even if new accommodation facilities open on time. The National Society remains operational and donors’ interest is sufficient to cover the RC response.
Operation Risk Assessment The points below are considered to be the major risk factors:
• Unclear situation without a certain end date; • Approach of winter and worsening weather conditions; • Volunteer personnel finding it difficult to commit for longer-term service; • Heavy workload, long working hours and psychological stress on NS staff / volunteers; • No possibility for volunteers to rotate • Decreasing stocks and resources; • Migration-related operations require a long-term commitment from the National Society as it is an open-ended crisis; • Sudden increases in numbers of people coming from Montenegro and Serbia who need assistance quickly; • Stress for migrants awaiting the registration process; • Tension rising between local people and people who are migrating. It is therefore very important that the Red Cross continues ongoing programmes for vulnerable local communities; • Cultural and language barriers. The outreach of NS helpers, especially to the most vulnerable groups, such as children and women, could be challenged by cultural and language barriers (e.g. limited interaction between genders and an inability to share important information). • Red Cross is affected by politicization of the situation. Authorities at local level sometimes block humanitarian initiatives or do not respect state level decisions as a result of the fragmented structure of the state. • The complex structure of the National Society is weakening its position vis-a-vis other humanitarian actors. As a result, the Red Cross presence in the front line is threatened.
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B. Operational strategy
Overall operational objective The immediate needs of 7,600 migrants temporarily accommodated in Bosnia and Herzegovina are met through the distribution of food, hygiene and non-food items, provision of first aid and protection activities, psychosocial support, Restoring Family Links (RFL) and community engagement activities.
In this Plan of Action, the following specific objectives have been identified:
• 1,000 migrants in two transit centres are provided with food, hygiene and non-food items; • 5,000 migrants in the transit areas are provided with basic assistance in the form of food, hygiene and non-food items as well as with first aid; • At least 1,600 migrants in Bira TRC have access to first aid services; • The capacity of the Red Cross of Bosnia and Herzegovina is built in the field of Community Engagement and Accountability, Psychosocial Support, Logistics/procurement, Information Management, Protection and Disaster Response; • 1,500 households (approx. 6,000 people) in host communities are supported through a cash transfer programme.
Proposed strategy As indicated above the number of migrants is expected to increase significantly in 2019, therefore RCSBiH plans to expand its service provision through this Emergency Plan of Action to meet the needs of as many migrants as possible. In coordination with other stakeholders RCSBiH plans to continue with the provision of food, hygiene and non-food items, first aid and RFL services and to expand the area of intervention as well as the services by establishing mobile teams that can assist people in the transit areas, where they currently have no access to basic services. In addition, the National Society aims to build its capacity in the field of Community Engagement and Accountability, Psychosocial Support, Logistics/procurement, Information Management and Protection in order to address the needs of people arising in these fields. The plan includes the following components:
1. Food provision RCSBH intends to fully cover food needs in Salakovac (Mostar) and one other centre in Una-Sana Canton. Given that IOM will cover the food needs of people accommodated in all centres until 31 March 2019, there is sufficient time to monitor the development of the situation in Una-Sana Canton and define the second location for food distribution based on actual needs, gaps and available resources in close coordination with other actors on the ground. Three meals, including two hot meals, will be provided to 1,000 people for a period of nine months starting on 1 April 2019. Based on experience gained from the Red Cross of City of Mostar providing food in Salakovac since the start of the operation, and the Red Cross Branch of Sarajevo Canton running a soup kitchen serving the local population, menus have already been developed considering feedback from migrants as well as the Sphere standards.
2. Mobile teams RCSBiH plans to establish mobile teams in five locations in the territory of BiH, with the aim of supporting migrants who are on their way between transit centres and have no access to basic services. The teams will consist of two volunteers trained in first aid and one driver, and will provide food parcels, NFIs, information (using migrants as translators when possible) and first aid. The vehicles will be equipped with necessary items and equipment. The geographical locations of the teams are defined based on common transit routes: Bijeljina, Brčko, Goražde, Una-Sana Canton and Sarajevo. (For the operational areas of the mobile teams, please see also the map on Page 30). The operational area will be defined as within a 100-kilometer radius of each mobile unit’s base station, with teams responding to call outs from the authorities, NGOs, and local people. The planned number of migrants reached by the mobile teams is 5,000 - ten per cent of the projected number of newly arrived migrants in 2019 (approx. 50,000) As well as food and non-food items, the teams will also provide hot drinks. Three teams are planned to be set up in the first two months of 2019 and to be fully operational from 1 March 2019. An additional two teams will be established according to the experiences gained in the first months of the operation and adapted to migration trends. One food parcel, sufficient for one person for one day in accordance with the Sphere standards, will include the following items:
Item Quantity Toast bread 2 Water 1l 1 Canned beef 150g 1 Canned fish 125g 1 Canned tuna 170g 1
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3. First aid teams First aid teams are already operational eight hours each day in Bira TRC, and RCSBiH plans to continue this activity in the coming months through this Plan of Action. The teams treat people for minor injuries not requiring hospital treatment, which are often suffered during attempts to cross the border. In addition to providing humanitarian aid to those who have suffered injury and helping prevent small injuries from developing into more serious health issues, the first aid service also reduces the burden on the local healthcare system. First aid teams and the mobile teams (see above) will be equipped with the same first aid equipment, including the following items:
Item Quantity Disinfectant 50 ml 3 Protective face masks 10 Disposable gloves 20 Alcohol 1 l. 3 Betadine (iodine) solution 150 ml 5 Hydrogen solution, 3 % 1 l. 5 Bandage, 10 cm 20 Bandage, 8 cm 20 Elastic bandage 10 Gauze7.5 30 Cotton, 100 gr 10 Triangular bandage 10 Analgesic gel 2 Analgesic cream 2 Spray against bleeding 2 Pain killer spray 2 Cream against insect bites 2 Cream for burns 2 Cooling spray 2 Tape, 2.5 h 5m 2 Adhesive tape 10 Vitamin C 10 packs Antipyretic 10 packs
To increase capacity, trainings in first aid and in operating the mobile teams will be conducted for volunteers specifically engaged in implementation of the plan of action. These trainings will include two initial trainings to first aid team members (Bira), one first aid training and one refresher first aid training to the mobile team members.
Although IOM and UNHCR provide psychosocial support (PSS) to migrants in the centres, there are still gaps to be filled. This Emergency Appeal aims to build RCSBiH capacity in the field of PSS through training staff and volunteers and developing psychosocial support programming. The IFRC Regional Office for Europe will support the National Society in this process, and specific assessments carried out at the beginning of the operation will help determine the training needs in coordination with other actors.
4. Hygiene promotion RCSBH will integrate the distribution of hygiene items into its ongoing activities. Sufficient stock will be made available for approximately 1,000 people for a period of 12 months in centres where RCSBiH provides food (Salakovac and one other centre in Una-Sana Canton). In these centres, hygiene items will be distributed using the ‘kiosk system’, whereby people select the items they need from available stock, minimizing waste and unnecessary distribution of items. In addition to stock for distribution in reception centres, 2,000 hygiene packs will be made available for distribution by the mobile teams and a further 24,000 hygiene packs will be allocated for all the centres in Una-Sana Canton. In total, 38,000 parcels will be available covering the needs of approximately 3,000 people for a period of 12 months, based on distribution of 3,000 hygiene packs per month. Sanitary towels and diapers will also be kept in stock to be distributed based on needs. 1,000 hygiene parcels will be kept in stock as contingency to be mobilized in case of sudden increase in the number of migrants or unexpected events.
Each standard hygiene pack consists of the following items:
Item Soap 250g Toothpaste 75ml Toothbrush Shampoo 250ml Wet tissue 15/1
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In addition to the above items, ten per cent of the total quantity will be sanitary towels for women and baby diapers, which will be distributed based on actual need.
To contribute to the further improvement of hygiene conditions, RC volunteers and staff will be trained on the Community- Based Healthcare and First Aid approach with a special focus on health promotion, prevention of infectious diseases, the spread of TB, personal hygiene and sanitation. The trained volunteers will then organize hygiene promotion sessions with the involvement of migrants, using information and educational materials in the languages of migrants (Arabic, Farsi, Urdu etc.).
5. Expansion of National Society stocks To ensure capacity to respond both to actual needs and to any sudden spike in needs – a result of an increase in the numbers of people arriving in the country, or the unexpected withdrawal of services by another partner, for example – the RCSBiH needs to both re-stock its depleted supplies and maintain a contingency stock of winter clothing to be distributed based on needs:
Item Operational stock Contingency stock Blankets 2,000 1,000 Sleeping bags - 1,000 Bags/backpacks 1,000 2,000 Hygiene parcels (for one month) 2,000 1,000
Besides the items listed above, RCSBiH will stock winter clothing, to be distributed to people based on need.
In case the situation evolves that cash transfer would better suit the needs of the migrants, the IFRC and the National Society will consider introducing cash transfer programme, which will be based on the findings of an eventual cash feasibility mission. Therefore, procurement of food and non-food items will be conducted in smaller quantity in liaison with the IFRC Logistics Services.
6. RFL Migrants will be assisted to establish contacts with their families through the Red Cross. People from the local Red Cross branches trained in RFL are involved in this activity. After an initial assessment, the RFL system has been established in Una-Sana Canton with the support of ICRC and RCSBiH Tracing Services. In order to ensure the smooth operation of the RFL staff, backpacks and vests will be procured. So far there is no need to scale up the operation in that area. RCSBiH will continue with service provision in the same manner.
7. Community Engagement and Accountability To ensure activities meet people’s expectations and needs, and adapt and improve over the course of the response, CEA capacity and influence will need to grow within the response and National Society. A focal point within the National Society will be identified and supported to increase his or her capacity to support CEA within the NS. The focal point will then be a vital partner, alongside support from IFRC ROE, in delivering training at the local, national and regional level to support migration programming in BiH and the wider Balkan region. Training and upskilling of staff and volunteers – alongside investment in tools, materials and activities - will result in greater participation of vulnerable people, service users, and people impacted by Red Cross work, in the design and adaptation of Red Cross activities, and greater responsiveness of the organization to that input; improved provision and sharing of organizational, programmatic and life-saving and life-improving information; and the establishment of transparent mechanisms through which people impacted by Red Cross activities can give their feedback and receive timely responses. To do this effectively, CEA will need to be securely mainstreamed within operations, with CEA staff working closely with operational, IM, PMER, PGI and Comms colleagues to capitalize on the skills and opportunities available.
8. Information Management As the NS looks at scaling up the response, it will be needed to strengthen internal and external data and information management to inform programme decisions. To this end, an IM focal point will be identified to support this work. In coordination with the IFRC ROE, the dedicated staff will support an assessment of the current information management structure and systems, will also be responsible for maintaining the GO platform dedicated page (creating and updating reports) and provide real time, high quality analysis of the humanitarian situation. A focus on information management will facilitate coordination with other actors responding in the country and internal coordination with IFRC and Partners NSs. The IM focal point – with the support of the IFRC ROE IM Delegate – will be responsible for training staff in data collection and management and supporting the design and setting up of a feedback mechanism to improve and adjust the response.
9. Protection Protection needs of migrants are addressed by UNHCR according to their mandate and usual practice in responding to migration situations. However, given the limited capacities of government structures as well as the shelter conditions many migrants live in, gaps in service provision leave room for other organizations to step in. Although RCSBiH currently P a g e | 13 lacks the capacity to contribute to protection activities, with the support of the IFRC Regional Office for Europe, the National Society intends to enter this field. In order to facilitate this, IFRC Regional Office for Europe will support an assessment of existing protection services provided for migrants by other agencies in BiH, and assessment of the internal capacities of the RCSBiH to engage in protection-related activities, including child protection, anti-trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence. A plan for implementation of protection activities by RCSBiH will be drawn up based on the findings of this assessment, and a programme developed in accordance with the IFRC mandate in the field of migration.
10. National Society capacity building A range of capacity building components (training, support to volunteers and staff, general support for activities, equipment and tools as well as vehicles) will be adopted to enable the smooth delivery of planned activities and strengthen the National Society for ongoing and future responses.
The RCSBH – with the support of IFRC and other National Societies – will organize specific trainings in the following areas: - Hygiene promotion; - Disaster Risk Reduction; - Logistics/procurement; - Information Management (IM); - Community Engagement and Accountability (CEA); - Psychosocial Support, including Psychological First Aid for migrants and PSS for volunteers; - Planning, Monitoring Evaluation and Reporting; - Protection.
The above trainings will be training of trainers or orientation workshops, increasing the number of staff and volunteers within the National Society capable of facilitating future trainings without support from the IFRC.
To support IM and CEA, the RCSBiH intends to expand use of the KoBo mobile phone-based data collection platform, already used by the Bihać Red Cross branch.
RCSBiH also plans to establish a volunteer database accessible at the branches and at the Headquarters.
In areas where the mobile teams will be active, RCSBiH plans to increase volunteer numbers through additional recruitment and trainings. Linking training and recruitment to the skills and needs identified by the mobile teams during their work should create a sustainable and coherent model, with essential skills enhanced through training and a pool of volunteers established allowing for rotation. In addition to trainings, volunteers will also be provided with the necessary equipment to do their jobs. Through this model, teams will be better skilled and able to respond to ongoing needs, as well as to other future emergencies.
Actions to support the capacity development of the mobile teams include: o Five mobile team trainings; o Emergency team leader training;
Mobile teams will be equipped with essential uniforms, protective equipment and communication devices (mobile phones, tablets).
To further develop the mobile teams, the National Society can build on the Movement’s Branch Disaster Response Teams (BDRT) concept. The assessment of the needs including BDRT concept, trainings and capacity will be organised in coordination with IFRC ERO DCPRR. Based on the results RCSBiH will embark through a process of BDRT trainings and development of a concept, which is up to date with the latest standards and technics in providing humanitarian assistance during crisis and emergencies.
Through this Emergency Appeal, the IFRC ROE will also explore the possibilities to lay the ground for longer term support in National Society Development to enhance National Society`s disaster response mechanism. More comprehensive preparedness work in NSs started with implementation of the Preparedness for the Response (PER) approach. The self-assessment was conducted in 2018 financially supported by Swiss Red Cross and based on the outcomes RCSBiH developed a Plan of Action prioritising emergency response and operational support. Through the course of action additional partner National Societies as well as ICRC were invited for the presentation of the PoA on the last day of the exercise to explore their potential involvement and support to RCSBiH. The activities of the EA, which are complimentary to the Self-assessment PoA of the PER process, will include developing of emergency structures, contingency planning, training of emergency response team and others. These measures will also allow staff and volunteers of RCSBiH to provide better assistance to those in need. Through the Emergency Appeal, RCSBiH supported by IFRC ROE will move ahead with the implementation of the agreed self-assessment PoA as feasible and required during the implementation time frame. P a g e | 14
Human Resources The Red Cross branches of City of Bihac, Una-Sana Canton and Sarajevo will be involved in the implementation of the activities with a total of 75 staff and volunteers. The operational budget will cover salaries for an National Society EA Coordinator, an IM Consultant, Assistant to the Coordinator, three Field Coordinators at entity level, Logistics and Finance officers and, last but not least, per diems and insurance for 80 volunteers5, who are engaged in the implementation of the migration operation during the 12-month period (kitchen staff, members of the mobile and first aid teams).
To support the National Society in its efforts to implement the Plan of Action, IFRC Regional Office for Europe will recruit an Operations Manager, who will be based in Bosnia and Herzegovina and will oversee the operation and support the National Society Emergency Appeal Coordinator in coordination with the National Society, government authorities, and external partners.
A PMER Officer, to be based at the Headquarters of the National Society, will also be recruited to support the Operations Manager and the Emergency Appeal Coordinator in information collection and report writing.
To ensure timely and good quality financial reporting systems RCSBiH will appoint a Finance Officer who will be specifically responsible for the financial management of the Emergency Appeal.
IFRC Regional Office for Europe also plans to deploy a Surge Communication Delegate for the period of one month and is considering the option to deploy a Surge Protection Delegate for the period of one month. Technical staff based in the IFRC Regional Office for Europe, such as Disaster and Crisis Preparedness, IM, CEA, PGI and Health Delegates will also support the National Society in the development and implementation of the respective relevant programmes. Whilst the Regional Coordinator: cash transfer programming will be deployed to support the cash and market feasibility analysis. The findings of the analysis will help to define the exact needs in further developing the cash transfer programming of RCSBiH and the possibility to expand it to the migration response of the National Society.
IFRC ROE also considers deploying RDRT members in case of significant increase in the number of migrants or sudden change in the response, which the National Society faces challenges to cope with or in cases when the actual human resources on ground are not sufficient.
Logistics and Supply Chain Logistics activities for this operation will be mostly implemented by the National Society, supported by the IFRC LPSCM Budapest team to meet operational needs. All procurement will be carried out following National Society procedures in line with local legislation and simultaneously ensuring process are in compliance with the standard IFRC procedures & regulations. Initial mission is to be conducted by IFRC supply chain specialist ensuring adequate organisation and understanding of IFRC procurement process. Furthermore, and on as needed basis, The IFRC LPSCM Budapest team will carry out procurement of some of the relief and other items required, ensuring standardization, efficiency and accountability. When and if required, additional assistance will be provided during follow up field visits.
To ensure timely and effective services, RCSBIH needs to increase its transport capacity with the addition of five vehicles for the mobile teams and three light transport vehicles for food transportation. The National Society is also in need of three further vehicles for the movement of personnel and relief items, while a forklift is also required to ensure efficient and safe handling of warehouse stock. A workshop on procurement and logistics will be held with the goal to increase the National Society`s capacity in this field. The overall operation is expected to contribute to expanding and supporting the Red Cross procurement, logistics and warehouse capacity.
Information technologies (IT) The expenses for telecommunications (telephone and internet) will be included in the operation`s budget. National Society headquarters and branch capacity will be increased through the acquisition of ten computers. Other IT equipment, like mobile phones, will be available for the operation from other sources.
Communications All activities carried out by RCSBH in response to the population movement emergency will be illustrated through a variety of communication channels, including news stories, audio visual products (photographs, videos, B-roll footage, etc.), social media, press releases, etc. This material will be shared with all National Societies for use in resource mobilization and awareness-raising efforts in their domestic markets. Materials will also be published on both IFRC and National Society online platforms in order to further illustrate the work of the National Society in the field of migration. In addition, visibility materials will be printed and placed in all centres, where the National Society is present.
5 Per diems for 24 volunteers are fully covered through this EA, and for 16 are covered by the NS sources. Insurance covers 80 volunteers taking also the number of new recruited volunteers into account. P a g e | 15
IFRC Regional Office for Europe plans to deploy a Surge Communications Delegate to support the National Society in handling international media, producing messaging that highlights the humanitarian needs and reflects the National Society’s substantial role as responder. The delegate will produce digital content to be used across IFRC channels and shared with the Bosnia and Herzegovina Red Cross and partner National Societies in the country. The delegate will also work with the National Society to determine other communications needs and create a capacity development plan, as well as provide media relations training to volunteers and staff.
Security As there are cultural differences and elements of frustration inside the target groups, some tensions could arise, and there is a slight chance of violent incidents. The Red Cross will provide security and cultural awareness briefings for the volunteers and staff involved. Hygiene and health related challenges have increased safety concerns (a higher risk of infectious diseases, for example scabies). To reduce the vulnerability of volunteers and staff working in the reception and transit centres, the Red Cross provides safety briefings, personal protective equipment, and sanitizers for its staff and volunteers.
Planning, monitoring, evaluation, & reporting (PMER) The existing monitoring and supervision system of the National Society will be strengthened through monitoring visits by IFRC regional PMER and other operational units. A final evaluation will be conducted with technical support from the IFRC Secretariat and the involvement of the National Society’s staff and volunteers, with a special emphasis on personnel in the branches to support the development of PMER capacity within the National Society.
The final evaluation will include consultation with people the Red Cross has tried to help directly, as well as of local authorities, regarding the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation, and its alignment with the standards and policies of the IFRC, of the RCSBiH and with the Sphere standards.
In addition to monitoring visits, the IFRC ROE will also conduct a PMER training for staff and key volunteers involved in the implementation of the Plan of Action. Staff members and volunteers from other entities will also be invited to participate, increasing the PMER capacity of the entire National Society.
A PMER Officer, to be based at the Headquarters of the National Society, will also be recruited to support the Operations Manager and the Emergency Appeal Coordinator in information collection and report writing.
IM + CEA Focal points for IM and CEA will be identified within the National Society to support capacity building. For IM this will include – in coordination with the IFRC Regional Office for Europe – assessments of the current information management structure and systems, maintenance of the BiH GO platform page and analysis of the humanitarian situation. The IM focal point will also work with IFRC ROE to train staff in data collection and management and, in coordination with CEA colleagues, support the design and set up of a feedback mechanism to improve and adjust the response.
Administration and Finance National Society and IFRC Secretariat and ROE operational administrative support and office costs are included in the operational budget. The management of the Emergency Appeal will be supported by the IFRC ROE in terms of transparency and fair administration. To ensure timely and good quality financial reporting systems RCSBiH will appoint a Finance Officer who will be specifically responsible for the financial management of the Emergency Appeal.
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C. Detailed Operational Plan Shelter People targeted: 3,000 Male: 2,700 Female: 300 Requirements (CHF): 109,000
Needs analysis: To ensure capacity to respond both to actual needs of migrants and to any sudden spike in needs the RCSBiH needs to both re-stock its depleted supplies and maintain a contingency stock of textile items, such as blankets, sleeping bags as well as winter clothing to be distributed based on needs.
Population to be assisted: Migrants in the transit areas (Bijeljina, Brčko, Goražde, Una-Sana Canton and Sarajevo), in BiH and migrants in the centres in Una-Sana Canton and in Usivak
Programme standards/benchmarks: Items are selected following the Sphere standards
Shelter Outcome 1: Communities in disaster and crisis affected areas restore and strengthen 3,000 people provided with safe, adequate and durable P&B their safety, well-being and longer-term recovery through shelter and settlement solutions recovery shelter and settlement assistance Output Shelter Output 1.1: Shelter and settlements and basic household items assistance is 3,000 people provided with safe, adequate shelter and Code provided to the affected families. settlement assistance Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP005 Procurement of blankets and sleeping bags, bags Distribution of blankets and sleeping bags, bags and winter AP005 clothing Coordination with other relevant sectors for integrated AP005 programming AP005 Coordination with government and other stakeholders AP005 Monitoring of the use of distributed shelter and household items
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Livelihoods and basic needs People targeted: 6,000 migrants and 1,500 households (approx. 6,000 persons) from local population Male: 5,300 Female: 700 Requirements (CHF): 1,724,460
Needs analysis: RCSBH intends to fully cover food needs in Salakovac (Mostar) and one other centre in Una-Sana Canton. Given that IOM will cover the food needs of people accommodated in all centres until 31 March 2019, there is sufficient time to monitor the development of the situation in Una-Sana Canton and define the second location for food distribution based on actual needs, gaps and available resources. In addition, RCSBiH plans to establish mobile teams in five locations in the territory of BiH. Migrants who are on their way between transit centres have no access to basic services, therefore they are in great need of assistance. As well as food and non-food items, the teams will also provide hot drinks. Three teams are planned to be set up in the first two months of 2019 and to be fully operational from 1 March 2019. An additional two teams will be established according to the experiences gained in the first months of the operation and adapted to migration trends. Vulnerable families in host communities will also be supported through cash assistance with the aim to prevent tensions between migrants and local community members, many of whom also live in difficult conditions with low income.
Population to be assisted: 1,000 migrants will be served with 3 meals, including 2 hot meals in two centres, Salakovac and one other in Una-Sana Canton for nine months. 5,000 migrants will be assisted by five mobile teams in the common transit routes: Bijeljina, Brčko, Goražde, Una-Sana Canton and Sarajevo. Furthermore, 1,500 households (approx. 6,000 people) in the host communities will be supported through cash transfer programme for two months.
Programme standards/benchmarks: Food parcels will be according to Sphere standards.
Livelihoods and basic needs Outcome 1: Communities, especially in disaster and crisis 6,000 people reached with food assistance 1,500 targeted households (approx. 6,000 people) that have P&B affected areas, restore and strengthen their livelihoods enough cash to meet their survival threshold Output Livelihoods and basic needs Output 1.2: Basic needs assistance for livelihoods security 6,000 people reached with food assistance Code including food is provided to the most affected communities Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP008 Preparation and distribution of food in 2 centres AP008 Procurement of 5 vehicles for the mobile teams AP008 Procurement of uniforms for mobile team members AP008 Procure mobile team equipment AP008 Procurement of dry food parcels (15,000 parcels) tea and soup AP008 Establish mobile teams AP008 Operation of mobile teams P&B Livelihoods and basic needs Output 1.5: Households are provided with 1,500 targeted households (approx. 6,000 people) that have Output unconditional/multipurpose cash grants to address their basic needs enough cash to meet their survival threshold
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Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Conduct a cash feasibility mission (to see if the migrants can be AP081 involved in cash distribution activities) Provision of cash assistance to 1,500 households in host AP081 community
Health People targeted: 2,600 Male: 2,300 Female: 300 Requirements (CHF): 84,040
Needs analysis: Health remains a challenge which has not been addressed systematically, but rather on a location by location basis. UNHCR and the Ministry of Security are covering the costs of primary healthcare in Mostar (Salakovac) and Hadžići (Ušivak), while the Ministry of Security provides healthcare for two government–led centers in East Sarajevo and Delijaš. In Una-Sana Canton, UNHCR, together with MSF and DRC provides health care in cooperation with local health centers. However, doctors are only present for an hour during weekdays and significant gaps remain, especially for migrants who are have minor injuries but not in need of hospital treatment. Migrants who try to cross the border during the day often come back injured. Taking care of those kind of injuries removes a large burden from the health system in Una-Sana Canton. There is no healthcare provision for people migrating through the transit areas. The five mobile teams will reach out those who are on the move between centres in Bosnia and Herzegovina and have no access to any services on the transitory route. Beside assisting them with food and non-food items they will also be provided with first aid when required. Therefore, the members of the mobile teams will be trained on first aid. Given the shelter conditions as well as the fact that many of the migrants have been on the move for months, some even for years, and that it is becoming more and more difficult to cross the borders and as such to reach their final destination, their coping mechanisms are getting weaker and weaker. Although IOM and UNHCR provide psychosocial support (PSS) to migrants in the centres, there are still gaps to be filled. After an assessment RCSBiH plans to introduce PSS activities for migrants.
Population to be assisted: 2,600 migrants at centres where RCSBiH is active
Programme standards/benchmarks: FA intervention will be conducted according to BiH and European guidelines.
2,600 people reached by NS with services to reduce relevant Health Outcome 1: The immediate risks to the health of affected populations are reduced health risk factors P&B 50 people trained by NS in first aid Output Health Output 1.2: Target population is provided with rapid medical management of injuries # of people reached by First Aid services (target TBC – based Code and diseases on needs) Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP022 Procurement of FA materials FA teams AP022 Procurement of uniforms for FA team volunteers
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AP022 Training of FA team members AP022 Operation of FA teams AP022 FA training for mobile members AP022 Refresher FA training for mobile team members AP022 Procurement of FA materials for the mobile teams (incl. bags) AP022 Procurement of stretchers 2,600 people reached with psychosocial support activities P&B Health Output 1.5: Psychosocial support is provided to the target population # of NS volunteers and staff trained in psychosocial support Output (target TBC) Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Assessment of PSP needs among migrants and RCSBiH AP023 capacities AP023 PFA training for volunteers AP023 PSP ToT AP023 Health Delegate mission Health Output 2.3: Community -based disease prevention and health promotion measures P&B 2,600 people reached with health promotion programming Output provided. Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP011 Printing and distributing health promotion materials
Water, sanitation and hygiene People targeted: 3,000 Male: 2,700 Female: 300 Requirements (CHF): 227,900
Needs analysis: Many migrants are currently housed in these shelters that lack heating; are not adequately insulated form cold temperatures; and have inadequate sanitation facilities. Many more are staying in tents or improvised structures. As a result, the National Society prioritizes distribution and replenishment of hygiene and non- food items to migrants, to ensure they are able to stay warm and avoid illness.
Population to be assisted: RCSBiH provides hygiene items for migrants in formal accommodation, with the support of other stakeholders. Hygiene parcels are distributed using the kiosk system and following the Sphere standards. Even though significant quantities of items have been distributed, the need to continue and upscale this activity remains high.3,000 migrants in the centres will be provided with hygiene items.
Programme standards/benchmarks: The hygiene items will be procured following the Sphere standards.
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WASH Outcome1: Immediate reduction in risk of waterborne and water related diseases in 3,000 people reached with key messages to promote personal targeted communities and community hygiene P&B WASH Output 1.4: Hygiene promotion activities which meet Sphere standards in terms of the 3,000 people reached with hygiene promotion activities Output # of volunteers involved in hygiene promotion activities (target Code identification and use of hygiene items provided to target population TBC) Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Conduct needs assessment: define hygiene issues and assess AP030 capacity to address the problem. AP030 Design/Print and distribute IEC materials AP030 Train volunteers on hygiene promotion P&B WASH Output 1.5: Hygiene-related goods (NFIs) which meet Sphere standards and training # of sets of essential hygiene items distributed (TBC – to be Output on how to use those goods is provided to the target population reported based on actual distribution) Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP030 Procure hygiene kits Distribute hygiene kits, sufficient for 12 months to people in 2 AP030 centres, in Una-Sana Canton and in the transit areas. Train population of targeted communities in use of distributed AP030 hygiene kits. Determine whether additional distributions are required and AP030 whether changes should be made. AP030 Monitor use of hygiene kits and user’s satisfaction
Migration People targeted: 2,600 Male: 2,300 Female: 300 Requirements (CHF): 17,700
Needs analysis: RFL services are established and running in Una-Sana Canton with support from the ICRC and RCSBiH Tracing Services. So far, there is no demand to scale up the operation there.
Protection needs of migrants are addressed by UNHCR according to their mandate and usual practice in responding to migration situations. However, given the limited capacities of government structures as well as the shelter conditions many migrants live in, gaps in service provision leave room for other organizations to step in. Although RCSBiH currently lacks the capacity to contribute to protection activities, with the support of the IFRC Regional Office for Europe, the National Society intends to enter this field. In order to facilitate this, IFRC ROE will support an assessment of existing protection services in BiH, and assessment of the internal capacities of the RCSBiH to engage in protection-
P a g e | 21 related activities, including child protection, anti-trafficking and sexual and gender-based violence. A plan for implementation of protection activities by RCSBiH will be drawn up based on the findings of this assessment, to develop a programme in accordance with the IFRC mandate in the field of migration.
Population to be assisted: 2,600 in centres where RCSBiH is active (where food will be distributed and where FA teams will operate).
Program standards/benchmarks: Protection activities will be implemented according the IFRC and ICRC mandates.
Migration Outcome 1: Communities support the needs of migrants and their families and 2,600 people reached with services for migration assistance those assisting migrants at all stages of migration (origin, transit and destination) and protection P&B Migration Output 1.1: Assistance and protection services to migrants and their families are 2,600 people reached with services for migration assistance Output provided and promoted through engagement with local and national authorities as well as in and protection Code partnership with other relevant organizations. # of NS staff and volunteers trained on and protection Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Assessment of protection needs of migrants, service already AP036 available and of RCSBiH capacity AP036 Training of staff and volunteers on protection AP036 Translation and printing of Protection field guide P&B Migration Output 1.3: “Family links are restored for people separated from, or without news # of people reached with RFL services (target TBC – to be Output of, their loved ones as a result of the disaster” reported based on actual activities) Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP083 All services and activities geared towards restoring family links. AP083 Procurement of RFL sets and vests
Strategies for Implementation Requirements (CHF): 946,146
S1.1: National Society capacity building and organizational development objectives are facilitated to ensure that National Societies have the necessary legal, ethical and financial 80 volunteers engaged in implementation P&B foundations, systems and structures, competences and capacities to plan and perform Output 80 volunteers insured Code Output S1.1.4: National Societies have effective and motivated volunteers who are protected # of PS sessions held for volunteers (target TBC) # of volunteers reached with PS (target TBC) Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP040 Ensure that volunteers are insured AP040 Develop volunteer database
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AP040 Provide psychosocial support to volunteers # of vehicles procured # of mobile offices established Output S1.1.7: NS capacity to support community-based disaster risk reduction, response # of NS staff participating in Emergency Needs Assessment P&B training Output and preparedness is strengthened 30 NS volunteers trained (mobile team members) Code # of interventions of the mobile teams (target TBC – to be reported based on actual activities) Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP002 Procurement of 3 light transport vehicles for food distribution AP002 Procurement of 3 vans or personnel transportation AP002 Procurement of 1 forklift AP002 Salaries of staff engaged in EA implementation AP002 Procurement of containers for mobile offices AP002 Procurement of 9 laptops AP002 Renting warehouses AP002 Training on Emergency Needs Assessment AP002 DRR training for the mobile team members AP002 Emergency Team Leader training AP002 DCPRR team missions # of number of surge deployments that strengthened the NS Outcome S2.1: Effective and coordinated international disaster response is ensured P&B capacity Output Output S2.1.1: Effective response preparedness and NS surge capacity mechanism is same as above Code maintained Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP046 Deploy Surge Communication Delegate AP046 Deploy Surge PGI Delegate AP046 Deploy RDRT 70% of target population satisfied with level of consultation, information and involvement in the operation 70% of target population satisfied with support received P&B Output S2.1.3: NS compliance with Principles and Rules for Humanitarian Assistance is #Trainings completed Output # of trained staff improved Code # Surveys carried out # feedbacks that are received and resolved 70% of service users satisfied with feedback/complaints system
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Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 CEA human resources/surge deployments - National Society CEA AP084 focal point, ROE CEA Delegate AP084 Training for CEA at local, national and regional level Systems are put in place to involve people affected by Red Cross AP084 activities in needs assessments and decision-making to ensure assistance is appropriate and relevant Regular surveys carried out to monitor satisfaction levels and AP084 identify priority areas for improvement and adaptation. Community communication activities ensure people are kept AP084 informed of operational plans and progress, and have information to make informed decision Community feedback systems (including rumour tracking) are AP084 established, and feedback acted upon and used to improve the operation Community engagement activities promote healthy and safe AP084 behaviour in relation to the identified risks and vulnerabilities AP084 Procurement of LCD televisions CEA Delegates mission P&B Output S2.1.4: Supply chain and fleet services meet recognized quality and accountability # of staff and volunteers with enhanced knowledge on logistics Output standards and procurements (target TBC based on trainings provided) Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP050 Logistics/procurement workshop for NS AP050 IFRC Logistics Delegate mission AP050 Procurement of 1 vehicle for IFRC Ops. Manager
Outcome S2.2: The complementarity and strengths of the Movement are enhanced Number of coordination meetings with the Movement.” P&B Output Output S2.2.1: In the context of large-scale emergencies the IFRC, ICRC and NS enhance their # number of Movement Partners participating Code operational reach and effectiveness through new means of coordination. Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP051 Movement Partners Meeting # of NS staff and volunteers with enhanced knowledge on P&B Output S2.2.5: Shared services in areas such as IT, logistics and information management information management (target TBC) Output are provided Number of virtual platforms and tools that have been Code implemented Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP052 IM/Mobile data collection training for NS
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AP052 Procurement of licence (Power BI) AP052 Procurement of laptop AP052 IM Delegate mission Outcome S3.1: The IFRC secretariat, together with National Societies uses their unique position to influence decisions at local, national and international levels that affect the most Number of newsletters, press releases and reports.” P&B vulnerable. Output Output S3.1.1: IFRC and NS are visible, trusted and effective advocates on humanitarian Number of NS staff trained in comms Code issues Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP053 Communication Delegate mission AP053 Media relations training to National Society staff and volunteers AP053 Procurement of 5 tablets Output S3.1.2: IFRC produces high-quality research and evaluation that informs advocacy, P&B number of evaluation reports Output resource mobilization and programming. Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP055 Final evaluation of the EPoA
Outcome S3.2: The programmatic reach of the National Societies and the IFRC is expanded. # of NS staff with enhanced knowledge on PMER P&B Output Output S3.2.1: Resource generation and related accountability models are developed and same as above Code improved Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP058 PMER training for NS staff AP058 NS PMER officer AP058 IFRC/NS planning meeting AP058 PMER Manager mission # of IFRC technical experts supporting the NS in Outcome S4.1: The IFRC enhances its effectiveness, credibility and accountability P&B implementation Output Output S4.1.2: IFRC staff shows good level of engagement and performance same as above Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP063 IFRC Operations Manager 10 months AP063 IFRC CEA Delegate 2 months AP063 IFRC IM Delegate 2 months
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AP063 IFRC PGI Delegate 2 months AP063 IFRC DP Delegate 2 months Output S4.1.3: Financial resources are safeguarded; quality financial and administrative P&B support is provided contributing to efficient operations and ensuring effective use of assets; # of financial reports following the IFRC standards Output timely quality financial reporting to stakeholders Code Activities planned / Month 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 AP064 NS Finance officer AP064 IFRC Finance team mission
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Budget
The budget of this Emergency Appeal is 3,311,347 Swiss francs.
all amounts in Swiss Francs (CHF)
Emergency Plan of Action MDRBA011 - Bosnia and Herzegovina - Population Movement 13/12/2018
Budget by Resource
Budget Group Budget Shelter - Relief 0 Shelter - Transitional 0 Construction - Housing 0 Construction - Facilities 0 Construction Materials 0 Clothing & Textiles 109,000 Food 1,073,420 Seeds & Plants 0 Water, Sanitation & Hygiene 214,200 Medical & First Aid 14,400 Teaching Materials 14,000 Utensils & Tools 0 Other Supplies & Services 0 Emergency Response Units 0 Cash Disbursement 300,000 Relief items, Construction, Supplies 1,725,020 Land & Buildings 0 Vehicles 238,500 Computers & Telecom 10,970 Office & Household Equipment 6,000 Medical Equipment 0 Other Machinery & Equipment 78,000 Land, vehicles & equipment 333,470 Storage 12,200
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Distribution & Monitoring 0 Transport & Vehicles Costs 23,820 Logistics Services 0 Logistics, Transport & Storage 36,020 International Staff 247,500 National Staff 115,560 National Society Staff 125,620 Volunteers 134,556 Personnel 623,236 Consultants 0 Professional Fees 73,000 Consultants & Professional Fees 73,000 Workshops & Training 206,000 Workshops & Training 206,000 Travel 62,500 Information & Public Relations 5,000 Office Costs 12,000 Communications 3,000 Financial Charges 30,000 Other General Expenses 0 Shared Office and Services Costs 0 General Expenditure 112,500 Assets Depreciation 0 Depreciation 0 Cash Transfers National Societies 0 Cash Transfers to 3rd Parties 0 Contributions and Transfers 0
DIRECT COSTS 3,109,246 INDIRECT COSTS 202,101 TOTAL BUDGET 3,311,347
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Reference documents For further information, specifically related to this operation please contact: In the Red Cross Society of Bosnia and Herzegovina Click here for: • Branko Leko, Secretary General, +387 33 263 935, [email protected] • Previous Appeals and • Nemanja Zekic, Acting Disaster Management Coordinator, +387 60 323 0879, [email protected] updates In the IFRC Regional Office for Europe • Seija Tyrninoksa, Head of Country Cluster Support Team, Central and South-Eastern Europe, +36 1 888 4515, [email protected] • Seval Guzelkilinc, Disaster Management Coordinator, +36 1 888 4505, [email protected] • Henriett Koos, Disaster and Crisis Response Snr. Officer, +36 1 888 4500; [email protected] In IFRC Geneva • Programme and Operations focal point: Javier Ormeno, Senior Officer, Operations Coordination, [email protected] For IFRC Resource Mobilization and Pledges support • Louise Daintrey, Head of Partnerships and Resource Development a.i., [email protected] For In-Kind donations and Mobilization table support: • Igor Dmitryuk, Team Lead, IFRC LPSCM Budapest, [email protected] For Performance and Accountability support (planning, monitoring, evaluation and reporting enquiries) • Dorottya Patko, PMER Manager, [email protected]
How we work All IFRC assistance seeks to adhere to the Code of Conduct for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) in Disaster Relief and the Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Humanitarian Response (Sphere) in delivering assistance to the most vulnerable. The IFRC’s vision is to inspire, encourage, facilitate and promote at all times all forms of humanitarian activities by National Societies, with a view to preventing and alleviating human suffering, and thereby contributing to the maintenance and promotion of human dignity and peace in the world.
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