The Division of Programme Support and Management (DPSM) works to provide the knowledge, guidance and tools necessary to design and deliver UNHCR programmes that demonstrate quality, technical integrity and innovation. The Division leads efforts to strengthen results-based management (RBM) within UNHCR and to ensure that planning, implementation and key management decisions are based on evidence and sound analysis. DPSM sets strategies, policies and standards and develops practical guidance and tools across a wide range of technical areas, from public health to food security and nutrition, water sanitation and hygiene, shelter and settlements, solutions, livelihoods and self-reliance, domestic energy, environmental management, registration, information management and statistics.
DPSM directly supports field operations through the deployment of experts and through global technical specialist networks, placing the highest priority on responding rapidly and effectively in emergencies. The concept of protection guides all dimensions of the Division’s work, which is supported through collaboration and strong partnerships with all of UNHCR’s key partners. DPSM manages its diverse and challenging agenda through two pillars, covering a) programme and operational data management; and b) technical support.
The Programme Analysis and Support Section (PASS) provides guidance on programme planning, implementation, monitoring and analysis. The Field Information and Coordination Section (FICSS) leads operational data management, focusing on registration and biometrics, information management, GIS and mapping technologies, statistics, surveys and profiling, and needs assessments. The Section also co-leads the Global CCCM Cluster alongside IOM.
The Public Health Section (PHS) oversees UNHCR’s programmes in public health, HIV and reproductive health, nutrition and food security, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH).
The Operational Solutions and Transition Section (OSTS) promotes solutions for refugees and the strengthening of key linkages with development actors. The Division plays a key role in the Solutions Steering Group in bringing greater focus and coherence to UNHCR’s work in this area and also significantly strengthened technical support to field operations. The Section also supports energy and environment interventions and livelihood programmes that build up refugees’ self-reliance.
The Shelter and Settlement Section (SSS) provides technical support for the development of global and country-level shelter strategies and planning. Through research and development, the Section offers field operations improved shelter solutions and site planning options. It also co-leads the Global Shelter Cluster in partnership with the IFRC.
Established in 2014, the Cash-Based Interventions Section (CBIS) provides overall coordination and guidance of CBIs and is supporting field operations with improved methodologies and tools for coordinated needs assessments, programme design, monitoring and communicating with refugees and other affected populations.