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How can H2H actors develop MEAL ‘systems’?

Humanitarian-to-humanitarian (H2H) actors carry out a range of monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) activities, but often struggle to do them systematically given the demands of multiple donor frameworks, project-based funding, and MEAL capacity limitations. This was the main finding from the first joint learning session of the MEAL Advisory Group (MAG) of the H2H Network, which also considered practical solutions and proposals for good practice in this area.

The MEAL Advisory Group (MAG) of the H2H Network held a joint learning session on 1 October 2020 focused on ‘Tailoring MEAL systems for H2H actors’. The session asked participants whether their MEAL activities amounted to a ‘MEAL system’, how their MEAL activities are coordinated, and what constitutes a ‘good enough’ MEAL system for H2H actors.

The session was the first in a series of joint learning sessions aimed at exploring MEAL challenges and sharing practical solutions among ‘H2H actors’ that provide specialist services to support humanitarian actors. The session was facilitated by Itad, contracted under the FCDO’s Humanitarian Global Services programme.

The session highlighted key MEAL challenges that face H2H actors and some suggested solutions. After the session, facilitators collected additional suggestions based on HGS MEAL support activities and learning to share with the MAG and wider H2H actors.