CBPFs flexibility guidance in the context of COVID-19, 29 April 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting Country-Based Pooled Funds (CBPFs) operations in different ways. The Humanitarian Financing Units (HFUs) in the field are swiftly adapting to this new working environment and remain very dedicated to support humanitarian partners despite the challenges faced. This situation created by the novel COVID-19 pandemic requires CBPFs to respond with greater flexibility, through simplifications in the current funding arrangements, yet keeping accountability over the use of funds. After an analysis of the evolving situation and related challenges which the Funds are beginning to face, and following requests from implementing partners, OCHA has agreed to put in place some extraordinary measures that will allow all key stakeholders to continue providing life-saving assistance to those in need.

To ensure that CBPFs can have the greatest possible impact on the global efforts against this unprecedented crisis, CBPFs allocations should be in alignment with the Global HRP COVID-191, provided they are not at the expense of other life-saving activities that the CBPFs undertake. CBPFs should promote complementarity with other funding sources, including with the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF).

The flexibility measures described below are also applicable to the funds that involve the Multi-Partner Trust Fund Office (MPTFO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the management and administration of funds.

All CBPF partners are encouraged to implement flexibility measures also for their sub-implementing partners.

This guidance note will be reviewed periodically and revised as required.