In a continually evolving environment, humanitarian actors are now recognising the need to better understand how their various roles, contributions, and relationships can have particular impacts on the effectiveness of aid being delivered in emergencies.

MERCY Malaysia, in collaboration with the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), are holding an International Conference with the theme: "Collaboration in a Changing Humanitarian Environment for Effective Response." The Conference aims to look at our relationships within, and beyond, the humanitarian community and how this collaboration can be improved in better responding to humanitarian crises; it will consider the changes in our operating environment, and the common values; and discuss the values and principles that motivate and drive our actions as humanitarian agencies. In a globalised world, improved collaboration demands building on the capacities of local organisations, which will also be a key theme of the Conference.

With more than 100 delegates from Europe, Middle East and Asia, the Conference will provide an international, multi-stakeholder platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas from key players in the humanitarian community around the world.

A pre-conference workshop will be held on 12 November 2009 with the theme of humanitarian standards and principles and accountability in practice.

We invite all personnel from any ASEAN relief agencies, NGOs and volunteers to present in the Pre-Conference free paper presentations on Thursday, 12 November 2009.

Abstract of not more than 300 words on the presentation need to be submitted via email to conference [@] mercy.org.my by 1st November 2009.

For further details and updates, please refer to our website at www.mercy.org.my