Livestock Emergency Guidelines and Standards (LEGS): Launch of the 2nd edition handbook

Speakers:

Andy Catley - Feinstein International Center, Tufts University, and Chair of LEGS Steering Group

Emma Jowett - Training Specialist, and member of the LEGS Training Team

Philippe Ankers - FAO Rome, and member of LEGS Steering Group

Chair: Wendy Fenton - Coordinator, Humanitarian Practice Network

Millions of people worldwide depend on livestock for their livelihoods and many of them – and their animals – are affected by disasters, both natural and man-made. There is a growing realisation that the response to these disasters needs to help save not just lives but also livelihoods, including protecting livestock.

The Livestock Emergency Guidelines and Standards (LEGS) are the international guidelines and standards for the design, implementation and assessment of livestock interventions to assist people affected by humanitarian crises. The LEGS Handbook was first published in 2009 following a broad consultation process, and is structured around a set of human livelihoods objectives. LEGS is a companion standard to Sphere.

The LEGS Handbook has now been fully revised and redesigned, with updated sections on key topics including cash and voucher transfers, climate change, support to livestock in camps, gender and animal welfare.

This event marks the publication of the second edition of LEGS and provides an opportunity to learn more about the LEGS approach and to discuss wider issues surrounding livelihoods-based support to livestock keepers in emergencies.