Counting and Identification of Beneficiary Populations in Emergency Operations (ODI, 1997, 110 p.): 2. Basic principles: 2.4 Respect for human safety, well-being, and dignity

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Counting and Identification of Beneficiary Populations in Emergency Operations (ODI, 1997, 110 p.)

2. Basic principles

		(introduction...)
		2.1 Continuous information gathering
		2.2 Clear and consistent definitions
		2.3 Accuracy
		2.4 Respect for human safety, well-being, and dignity
		2.5 Communication and transparency
		2.6 Vested interests

2.4 Respect for human safety, well-being, and dignity

Population identification and quantification activities should be governed by universal standards of respect for human rights and dignity, and for confidentiality and security. Degrading methods of ‘herding’, or marking people without their consent should obviously be avoided. (While rare, on occasion these methods have been used during mass influx emergencies, for example in East Africa). As far as possible, the timing of formal information gathering exercises and location should be chosen with respect for local custom, religion and culture (preferably avoiding religious, cultural, or national festivals, or times of collective mourning). Special attention should be accorded to the well-being and comfort of vulnerable groups.