The Sphere Project and its Handbook are well known for introducing considerations of quality and accountability to humanitarian response. Sphere’s philosophy is based on two core beliefs: first, that those affected by disaster or conflict have a right to life with dignity and, therefore, a right to assistance; and second, that all possible steps should be taken to alleviate human suffering arising out of disaster or conflict. The Sphere Project’s minimum standards are evidence-based and represent sector-wide consensus on best practices in humanitarian response. The standards describe conditions that must be achieved in any humanitarian response in order for disaster-affected populations to survive and recover in stable conditions and with dignity.

The Sphere Handbook is designed for planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation during humanitarian response. It is also an effective advocacy tool when negotiating for a humanitarian space and for the provision of resources with authorities. Furthermore, it is useful for disaster preparedness activities and contingency planning, with donors increasingly including the standards in their reporting requirements.

This link goes straight to the Shelter and Settlement standards