The availability of robust, reliable information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure and services has become critically important to the successful functioning of all the clusters and for ensuring personal security from the onset of an emergency. The Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) is committed to providing clearly defined services to ensure timely, predictable, and effective inter-agency telecommunications to support humanitarian operations in emergencies.  

ETC Principles
- Clear structure with well defined roles and responsibilities for providing Inter-Agency telecommunications infrastructures covering both data and security communications, which are essential for effective and efficient emergency operations
-  Field, regional and HQ activities allowing for systematic and global gap analysis
-  Provide framework for NGO/Private sector operational collaboration
-  Provide rapid response with predictable service deliverables and timeframes
-  Pre-positioned resources (staff, equipment and standby capacities)
-  Provision of standard, interoperable ICT platforms and procedures to avoid duplication and ensure cost effective services
-  Ensure a smooth transition to post-emergency reconstruction

Description of services provided by the ETC

Who does what....
PROCESS OWNER
OCHA: Overall coordination, preparedness and initial response
SERVICE PROVIDERS
UNICEF: Common data telecommunication services
WFP: Common security telecommunications services
UN PARTNERS: DPKO, UNHCR, UNITAR/UNOSAT, WHO, UNDSS, UNDP, ICRC, IFRC
NON-UN PARTNERS:  SRSA (Swedish Rescue Services Agency), NRC (Norwegian Refugee Council), DRC (Danish Rescue Council), Télécoms Sans Frontières, Ericsson Response, RedR Australia, NetHope - consortium of 18 international NGOs ,  as well as stand-by and private sector partners.