Summary Points
In January 2000, the Sphere project published the first handbook describing minimum standards and related key indicators applicable to emergency relief programmes.
The handbook aims to stimulate learning and accountability by measuring process and outcome.
The standards and key indicators are minimum values for beneficiaries but cannot always be used as planning objectives by humanitarian agencies.
Assessment of performance of single agencies must take into account the general context of the emergency, particularly resource availability, access, and interventions by others.
Use of technical standards must be accompanied by an obligation on states to respond to humanitarian emergencies and guarantee the rights of populations.
