About Us

International Council of Voluntary Agencies

Focus areas

ICVA is a global network of non-governmental organizations whose mission is to make humanitarian action more principled and effective by working collectively and independently to influence policy and practice.

About ICVA

Overview...

Founded in 1962 by a small coalition of refugee and migration focused NGOs, ICVA has grown into a diverse network of over 160 NGO members operating in 160 countries...
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Who we are

Founded in 1962, International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) is a global network of over 160 non- governmental organizations (NGOs) active in 160 countries, operating at global, regional, national and local levels, whose mission is to make humanitarian action more principled and effective by working collectively and independently to influence policy and practice. 

ICVA members currently include humanitarian NGOs, large and small, national and international, networks and consortiums, secular and faith-based, with an estimated income of over USD 20 billion. Almost 50% of our members have their HQ in the global south. Through our members we have an outreach of over 8000 organizations. In addition to membership, ICVA has developed several strong and diverse partnerships at local, national, regional and global levels. 

The idea that drives us

The vision of ICVA is a world in which crises-affected populations are effectively protected, assisted, and enabled to rebuild their lives and livelihoods with dignity.

The mission of ICVA  is to make humanitarian action more principled and effective by working collectively and independently to influence policy and practice.

Our values and principles

  • Our work is based on the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence as well as the Principles of Partnership.
  • We work towards a system that enables people affected by humanitarian crises to receive equitable access to quality assistance and protection rooted in international humanitarian and human rights law.
  • We promote innovative approaches to humanitarian policy development and implementation, and offer evidence-based, solutions-oriented advocacy.
  • We promote equitable inclusive engagement of NGOs and principled multi-stakeholder partnerships to realise the full value of diversity and to ensure the legitimacy of our work.
Resources

ICVA pubication
11 July 2022
ICVA at a glance 2022-2024
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ICVA_Brochure23
Description

This poster and brochure provides a brief outline of the structure and key priority areas of ICVA – a global network of 160+ humanitarian NGOs.

ICVA's global presence

ICVA is based in Geneva, giving proximity to global humanitarian debates and decision making. ICVA complements this presence in Geneva through regional representation in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and Latin America.

The regional hubs enable ICVA to expand its engagement with NGOs, NGO fora, and humanitarian actors, providing an important link between global and regional perspectives and ensuring a connection to the operational realities of its members.

ICVA's Focus Areas

ICVA connects the voices of its members in order to:

  • Share and exchange experiences and information;
  • Collaborate on common issues;
  • Harness varying perspectives and inspire each other;
  • Engage with and influence other actors, including the UN, governments and regional organizations.

We do this through our focus areas:

What we want to achieve

Strategic Plans...

Our strategy directs our work to achieve our mission of making humanitarian action more principled and effective by working collectively and independently to influence policy and practice...
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ICVA 2030

The ICVA 2030 Strategy sets the framework for the direction and focus of ICVA’s work from 2022-2030, as we evolve and transform our network. Rooting us more deeply in our mission of principled and effective humanitarian action, this strategy sets our collective values, our ways of working and our aspirational transformations. We will continue to work on our focus areas to best serve our members and the sector as a whole. Our added value is rooted in our work explaining & analysing, convening, brokering, influencing & advocating, supporting and collaborating.

This strategy was adopted members at the 18th General Assembly in May 2021.

ICVA strategy
12 July 2021
ICVA 2030 Strategy
Subject/ ICVA /
ICVA 2030
Description

This document sets the framework for the direction and focus of ICVA’s work from 2022-2030, as we evolve and transform our network. Rooting us more deeply in our mission of principled and effective humanitarian action, this strategy sets our collective values, our ways of working and our aspirational transformations. We will continue to work on focus areas which to best serve our members and the sector as a whole. Our added value is rooted in our work explaining & analysing, convening, brokering, influencing & advocating, supporting and collaborating.

This strategy was adopted by members at the 18th General Assembly in May 2021.

ICVA publication
29 June 2021
ICVA at a glance 2019-2021
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ICVA_Poster2019 (1)
Description

This is the ICVA poster and brochure for better understanding of the 2019-2021 strategic period.

 

Strategic priorities 2022-2024

The Strategic priorities 2022-2024 were adopted by members at the 18th General Assembly in May 2021.

These priorities are drawn from the ICVA 2030 strategic vision, providing a more specific focus for the period 2022-2024. On the basis of these priorities, the Secretariat developed a three-year plan for ICVA Board approval in November 2021. The plan includes specific choices on content of ICVA’s work, enabling strategies, the resource planning and requirements and a set of performance indicators.

ICVA publication
19 May 2021
Strategic Priorities 2022-2024
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Strategic priorities 2022-2024
Description

The ICVA 2030 strategic framework will be implemented by a series of three-year and annual plans guided by strategic priorities derived from the overarching vision. The 18th General Assembly in May 2021 approved the Strategic Priorities proposed by the Board. These priorities are drawn from the 2030 strategic vision, providing a more specific focus for the period 2022-2024.

Annual reports and audited accounts

Our annual report shows how ICVA is making progress towards our strategic objectives.

We also publish our audited accounts, explaining where our income comes from, and how we’ve spent it. They are published annually.

Resources

Annual reports
30 May 2021
ICVA Annual Reports
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Copy of AR 2020
Annual reports
30 May 2021
ICVA financial statements
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FS2018
Impact studies and case studies

Every three years, we conduct an external review to assess the impact of ICVA’s work and strategy. The Impact Study reports are based on the findings of the mid-strategy reports.

Report
9 March 2022
Impact Study 2019-2021
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Impact Study Full Report 2019 - 2021
Description

Conducted by Sandstone Consulting, this external evaluation takes stock of the impact ICVA has achieved over the course of its 2019-2021 Strategy. The key question being investigated is “What has been the impact of ICVA`s efforts in influencing and amplifying NGO perspectives in humanitarian dialogue and policies across each of the four selected focus areas and other issues arising for the period 2019-2021?  The methodology comprised a document review, interviews with selected stakeholders, and a review of the substantial existing data from ICVA’s recent 2030 strategy consultations with members. This report builds on the findings of the Mid Strategy Report by the same consultants.

ICVA report
17 February 2021
Case studies 2019 - 2021
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2019 case studyimage
Description

5 case studies showing the diversity of ICVA’s ways of working globally and regionally were included in the 2019-2020 mid stratetgy impact study report.

  • Case Study 1 • In its advocacy for the Sahel Region,  understanding was grounded through its regular engagement with HCs and NGOs in the region.
  • Case Study 2 • ICVA enabled the inclusion and participation of local and national NGOs in IASC coordination structures, notably the Operational Policy and Advocacy Group (OPAG) and Results Groups (RGs), for the first time after years of advocating for inclusion of national NGOs in the IASC architecture.
  • Case Study 3 • ICVA helped improve NGO understanding of the “8 + 3 Template” by engaging local NGOs and field colleagues about the approach and the implications of the template during the pilot process in Iraq, Myanmar, and Somalia.
  • Case Study 4 • ICVA’s increased engagement in China to facilitate a more diverse and inclusive approach to coordination and has helped to expand the role of Chinese NGOs in international forums and coordination mechanisms.
  • Case Study 5 • Throughout 2020, ICVA worked to support members adjust to the substantial operational and financial challenges created by the pandemic. ICVA was able to do this by successfully integrating Covid-19 response activities into its current strategic focus areas and the ways of working (such as through engagement in the IASC mechanisms).

4 case studies were included in the 2019-2021 impact study report.

  • Case Study 1: Throughout 2020 and 2021, ICVA contributed greatly to the work of the High Level Panel (HLP) on Internal Displacement through civil society engagement and playing a catalysing role regarding joining messages which focused in particular on the following subjects addressed in the HLP report and its recommendations. 
  • Case Study 2: ICVA and our members and CSO partners joined together in a call to States and their leaders to take action through an Open Letter on famine prevention.
  • Case Study 3: ICVA was a core part of the process in developing the Climate Charter and bringing together ICVA members to shape the Charter and mobilising them to sign the Charter.
  • Case Study 4: In a collaboration with UNDP Syria and the local Syrian Network League (SNL), ICVA worked closely with the heads of the Syrian NGO Networks to strengthening their existing capacity on a set of required skills related to collective advocacy, representation, and strategic planning.
ICVA report
17 February 2021
2019-2020 Mid-strategy Impact Study
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2019-2021 impact study image
Description

This study took stock of the impact ICVA has achieved just over midway through its 2019-2021 Strategy. The key question  investigated is “What has been the impact of ICVA’s efforts in influencing and amplifying NGO perspectives in humanitarian dialogue and policies across each of the four selected focus areas and other issues arising for the period 2019-2020?”

The methodology comprised a document review, interviews with selected stakeholders, and a review of the substantial existing data from ICVA’s recent 2030 consultations with members

Impact study
6 February 2019
2015-2018 Impact Study Report
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impact study 2015-2018
Description

This impact evaluation refers to ICVA’s 2015-2018 strategy. The report has been structured to align with how ICVA worked in practice, while staying true to the selected focus areas; Forced Displacement, Humanitarian Partnerships, Humanitarian Financing, Humanitarian Coordination. The methodology comprised interviews and document reviews, also drawing from interim impact studies conducted previously. The main findings are presented under the main work areas used to frame the key evaluation questions.

ICVA's Governing Body

Governance...

The ICVA governing body, the Board, is elected by the General Assembly, which convenes every three years....
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ICVA Board

Our committed and diverse Board plays a crucial role in the governance of ICVA. They ensure that the interests of our members are well represented and that we are accountable to all our stakeholders. Additionally, they provide leadership and strategic guidance to support the financial and operational stability to advance our mission of making humanitarian action more principled and effective.

In accordance with the ICVA Statues, the Board is composed of 9 elected member agencies, plus two coopted members. The General Assembly elects nine (9) Board members, and from those elected members a Chair is selected.

  • Africa Humanitarian Action: Mr Wossen Tesfaye – Treasurer
  • Amel Association International: Ms Virginie Lefevre
  • Amity Foundation: Ms Chunxiang Ling
  • Christian Aid: Ms Jane Backhurst – Chair
  • Concern Worldwide: Ms Réiseal Ní Chéilleachair – HR Focal Point
  • Dignidad y Justicia en el Camino A.C. (FM4 Paso Libre): Mr Luis Enrique Gonzalez Araiza
  • Islamic Relief Worldwide: Ms Shahin Ashraf – Vice-Chair
  • Clear Global/Translators without Borders: Ms Aimee Ansari
  • War Child: Mr Ramin Shahzamani
  • Act Alliance: Mr Thorsten Goebel
Resources

ICVA publication
16 May 2021
ICVA Statutes 2021
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ICVA statutes 2021 image
Description

ICVA Statutes, revised at the 18th General Assembly, 18 / 19 May 2021.

Board members

Organisation: Christian Aid
Ms Jane Backhurst
Position: Chair
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As Senior Advisor, Humanitarian Policy and Advocacy of Christian Aid, Jane works on humanitarian response and peace building.  Previously she worked in the Red Cross, UN, EU/ECHO, and NGOs in countries affected by conflict and severe poverty, in operational, senior management, advocacy, and community protection roles.

Jane believes in the power of local and international alliances, including ICVA, to shape this reform: she has set up NGOs and NGO coalitions, has served on several boards, as ICVA Vice Chair and Chair of ICVA Board’s Policy, Programme and Advocacy Committee , VOICE, the European humanitarian aid network, the European Peace building Liaison Office which she co-founded, chaired the Civil Military Working Group with UK line ministries.

She believes it is the renewed and emphatic focus on local leadership and the respect of international law that will make current reform efforts powerful.

Christian Aid is leading a flagship campaign to influence COP26, building on decades of work on climate justice

 

Organisation: Clear Global/Translators without Borders
Ms Aimee Ansari
Organisation: Islamic Relief Worldwide
Ms Shahin Ashraf
Position: Vice - Chair and Treasurer
Organisation: Concern Worldwide
Ms Réiseal Ní Chéilleachair
Position: HR Focal Point
Organisation: Amel Association International
Ms Virginie Lefevre
Organisation: Africa Humanitarian Action
Mr Wossen Tesfaye
Organisation: WarChild Netherlands
Mr Ramin Shahzamani
Organisation: Amity Foundation
Ms Chunxiang Ling
Organisation: Dignidad y Justicia en el Camino A.C. (FM4 Paso Libre)
Mr Luis Enrique Gonzalez Araiza
Organisation: ACT Alliance
Mr Thorsten Goebel 
18th General Assembly 2021

Every three years ICVA’s General Assembly brings ICVA members together to celebrate the network and agree on a long-term strategy and strategic priorities for the following three years. It is also the time when the General Assembly elects a new Board and Chair, and discusses other business matters, such as amending the ICVA Statutes.

The 18th General Assembly took place on 18 and 19 May 2021.  For our first online General Assembly,  105 organizations registered and there is always an attendance of a minimum of 100 participants at any moment. The General Assembly adopted the ICVA 2030 Strategy, the Strategic Priorities 2022- 2024 and the Commitment and Motion to Action on the Climate and Environment. Proposed amendments to the ICVA Statutes were approved. Members also reaffirmed principles and standards they adopted individually when joining ICVA and/or reaffirmed individually in 2017. The General Assembly elected a new Board with Ms Jane Backhurst of Christian Aid  being appointed as Chair.

Related resources

ICVA publication
16 May 2021
ICVA Statutes 2021
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ICVA statutes 2021 image
Description

ICVA Statutes, revised at the 18th General Assembly, 18 / 19 May 2021.

ICVA Governance
26 May 2021
Commitment and Motion to Action on Climate and Environment
Subject/ ICVA / Climate & environment /
ICVA Governance
25 May 2021
Reaffirmation of Principles
Subject/ ICVA /
External Source
20 May 2021
ICVA 18th General Assembly 2021- Working Documents
Subject/ ICVA /
ICVA_Poster2019 (1)
Description

The working documents for the ICVA 18th General Assembly are:

  • Provisional Agenda
  • Minutes of 17 General Assembly March 2018
  • ICVA Statutes – Proposed Amendments
  • ICVA 2030 Strategy
  • Strategic Priorities 2022-2024
  • Reaffirmation of  Principles
  • Commitment and Motion to Action on Climate and Environment
Our Team

About our Staff...

The ICVA Secretariat is based in Geneva, Amman, Bangkok, Nairobi and Dakar, and Guadalajara...
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Senior Management Team

Dr Jamie Munn
Executive Director
Ms Mirela Shuteriqi
Director of Policy
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Mirela joined ICVA in 2019 as Director of Policy where she leads a policy team focusing on forced migration, humanitarian financing, and coordination.

As a human rights lawyer from Albania, she has 15 years of professional experience on humanitarian and development issues working for both NGOs and UN Agencies. She worked with UNICEF as advocacy coordinator on the rights of refugee and migrant children in Europe. Prior to UNICEF, Mirela served as global protection adviser for Terre des hommes, covering programmes aiming at preventing child exploitation, trafficking and other forms of violence against children. For few years she provided direct legal services to vulnerable families and Albanian children exploited or living in the streets of Albania and Greece.

She holds an LLM degree and has authored various publications on human rights and migration law.

Ms Susan Wilding
Chief Operating Officer
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Susan joined ICVA in August 2022 as Chief Operating Officer. She has a range of experience in the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Susan comes to ICVA from CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation where she was the Head of the Geneva office.

Over the last 10 years at CIVICUS, she has held a part programme and part operational management role. Before joining CIVICUS, Susan was a diplomat with the South African government (human rights and humanitarian affairs) and prior to that, she worked for a large public affairs consultancy firm headquartered in Washington DC.

Susan has a BA in Psychology, an honours degree in Political Science and a Masters in International Relations. She has various post-graduate management diplomas and is a published author on various topics. Susan is also a guest lecturer and enjoys teaching.

Programme and Policy Team

Ms Davina Saïd
Head of Forced Migration
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Davina has extensive experience working in NGOs on issues related to forced displacement, beginning with the British Refugee Council. She also worked with NGOs in MENA where she focused on development and humanitarian interventions.

Prior to joining ICVA, Davina worked for UNHCR in the Division of International Protection where she provided capacity building, policy development, and technical support to States on resettlement and complementary pathways programmes, as well as being the integration focal point. She has also worked with UNHCR in the Southern Africa region focusing on durable solutions.

Davina was a research fellow under the European Commission’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie programme as well as a research consultant. Her research specialised in refugee integration, inclusion, and participatory approaches and she has published on these topics. She holds an MSc in Global Politics and a degree in the Social Sciences.

Ms Loise Dai Rocheteau
Senior Policy Officer Forced Migration
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Loïse has expertise on Forced Displacement with 10 years of experience including in preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence in humanitarian settings and particularly in the context of refugee responses in North Africa, South-East Asia & Europe. Loïse’s skills include research, analysis and reporting, capacity building, multi-stakeholders engagement, public speaking and meeting coordination.

She holds a master’s degree in Human Rights with a specialty in Humanitarian Affairs from the University of Strasburg. Recently, she completed a course on Climate Change and Human Mobility from the University for Peace.

Prior to joining ICVA in 2019, she worked with the NGOs International Rescue Committee and France Terre d’Asile as well as with UNHCR.

Ms Gabriela Miranda
Senior Policy Officer Forced Migration
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Gabriela joined ICVA in April 2023 as Senior Policy Officer. Her work on Forced Migration focuses notably in supporting NGOs to collectively participate in and influence global processes and mechanisms to ensure these are inclusive, contextualised, and effective in supporting NGOs to meet the needs of those affected by crisis.

Over the past five she has worked with several NGOs and foundations in the development and humanitarian sectors in advocacy, coordination and external engagement. Prior to joining ICVA, she worked with World Vision International on Education in Emergencies on advocacy as well as on technical front through a deployment to support the Ukrainian crisis response.

Gabriela holds a bachelor’s degree in Multilingual Communication and a master’s degree in Standardization, Social Regulation and Sustainable Development from the University of Geneva.

Ms Manon Glaser
Policy Officer Humanitarian Financing
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Manon joined ICVA in 2022 as Humanitarian Finance Policy Officer, her work focuses on Quality Funding and Partnerships in addition to other humanitarian finance topics.

Over the past seven years, she has worked with several NGOs in the humanitarian sector in advocacy, policy analysis and research. Prior to joining ICVA, she worked with MSF International as well as country-level NGOs such as Lebanon Support and INSAN in Lebanon.

Manon holds a bachelor’s degree in War Studies and a master’s in International Peace and Security from King’s College London University.

Mr Jeremy Wellard
Head of Humanitarian Coordination
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Building on his background in coordination, community engagement and network development, Jeremy is a strong advocate for NGOs in interagency coordination, policy and advocacy mechanisms. He previously served as ICVA’s Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, and worked in partnerships for UNOCHA, following 15 years working in development for government, NGO and private sectors across Asia-Pacific region and in his home country of Australia.

Jeremy previously led ICVA’s policy work on the localization of humanitarian action including authoring several papers on this topic. He holds a master’s degree in International Development Studies and a degree in Behavioural Science.

Ms Eileen Morrow
Policy and Advocacy Coordinator
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Eileen Morrow supports the Humanitarian Coordination team, with a strong focus on COVID-19 vaccination. Prior to this she was funded by ICVA as the Ethiopia Humanitarian INGO Forum Director. She has worked as Country Director for Concern Worldwide in Ethiopia and Nepal and has a wealth of experience leading and coordinating humanitarian response with NGO and INGO partners in contexts as diverse as Kenya, India, Uganda, Tanzania and Haiti.

She holds a masters in Humanitarian Assistance (NOHA) from the Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, and a bachelor of arts in Psychology from University College Dublin. She is based in Dublin, Ireland.

Mr Albert-Philip Burger
NGO Fora Programme Coordinator
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Albert-Philip joined humanitarian action in 2005, during the Darfur crisis. Since then, he has deployed for various NGOs on a number of humanitarian crises, including South Sudan, Chad and Pakistan, but has also worked on development in contexts such as DPR Korea and post-Ebola Sierra Leone, and on mine action in Guinea. He was a country director for over 10 years, and the coordinator for the INGO forum in Mali in 2020.

He was ICVA West and Central Africa Representative in 2021, before joining the Humanitarian Coordination department in 2022.

Ms Nishanie Jayamaha
Learning and Climate Change Programme Coordinator
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Nishanie started her humanitarian career in Sri Lanka following the Indian Ocean Tsunami and has over 15 years of experience working in the United Nations, Government institutions (Secondment), the NGO and private sector in managerial and leadership roles.  Prior to joining ICVA in September 2017,  she worked at the Professionals in Humanitarian Assistance and Protection (PHAP), the World Humanitarian Summit (WHS) secretariat in Geneva and New York, Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Sri Lanka and Geneva, and at the Centre for Women’s Research (CENWOR) in Sri Lanka. At ICVA, Nishanie is the focal point on Climate Change and Civic Space.

She holds a masters in International Relations from the University of Colombo and a bachelor’s degree in English, Sociology and Psychology from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.

Mr Alon Plato
Senior Policy Officer, PSEAH and Diversity
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Alon is Senior Policy Officer for PSEAH and Diversity, overseeing ICVA’s work on safeguarding, gender, considerations of age, and inclusion of persons with disabilities . He has been leading the network’s work on safeguarding since 2018 and sits in forums such as the IASC PSEAH Technical Advisory Group, The IASC Field Support Team, the CSSG and the Safeguarding Resource and Support Hub Executive Steering Committee. Alon established and manages the PSEA Community Outreach and Communication Fund in partnership with UNHCR. He previously covered for ICVA the subject of humanitarian financing and partnerships, including topics such as donor conditions, risk and innovative funding mechanisms.

Prior to ICVA, Alon worked on human rights, gender and peacebuilding and holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from the Graduate Institute in Geneva (IHEID).

 

Ms Vania Gobbo
Policy Officer
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Vania began at ICVA as an intern in 2019, supporting ICVA’s Head of Humanitarian Coordination and working on the NGO Fora programme. She is now a Policy Officer supporting ICVA’s work on Migrants in Vulnerable Situations, PSEA and Diversity considerations of age and on the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities.

Prior to ICVA, Vania worked with OHCHR, supporting the Secretariat of the Human Rights Council. Vania holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Università LUMSA, Rome, and a master in Middle Eastern Studies from University of Geneva.

Regional Representatives

Ms Keya Saha-Chaudhury
Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific
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Keya joined ICVA in 2020 and hopes to translate her experiences working in gender and health across the development and humanitarian space into an asset for the work of ICVA in the region.

She has over 12 years of experience working with local and international NGOs in the Asia Pacific Region including the Red Cross and International Planned Parenthood Federation (IPPF). She has worked with a diverse country portfolio, including Myanmar, China, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Nepal, Philippines and PNG.  Her work has focused on strengthening engagement of local NGOs in the humanitarian system, emergency preparedness and partnership development.

Ms Asma Saleem
Deputy Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific
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Asma has over 10 years of experience working with the government, NGOs, and private sectors on organizational development, partnerships, and community development. In her role as Deputy Regional Representative for the Asia Pacific, Asma provides support in setting the direction of ICVA’s work within the region and strengthening meaningful participation and linkages of regional and local actors in humanitarian coordination, preparedness, climate action, and partnership development.

She holds M.Phil. degree in International Relations and a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences.

Ms Adeline Benita
Regional Representative for West and Central Africa
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Adeline has worked for over 5 years in the Sahel region, first as INSO’ director in Mali, Burkina Faso and opening Niger, and then with the INGO forum in Mali. Before that, she worked around project and mission management in the positions of project manager and technical reference. Further, she has also held coordinator to country director positions in different countries (DRC, CAR, Haïti, Lebanon), sectors and INGOs.

She joined ICVA in 2022 as a Representative for West and Central Africa, based in Dakar. She holds a master’s degree in Social and Humanitarian Projects Management.

Ms Fatoumata Konate
Deputy Regional Representative for West and Central Africa
Mr Addis Tesfa
Regional Representative for East and Southern Africa
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Addis represents ICVA in East and Southern Africa.

Ms Nkirote Laiboni
Deputy Regional Representative for East and Southern Africa
Ms Eman Ismail
Regional Representative for MENA
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Since 2019, Eman has been representing ICVA in MENA and is the focal point on localization.

With over 15 years of experience as an emergency and development professional leader working in the humanitarian sector, private and government sectors Eman has an extensive knowledge on localization, emergency and refugee response, community mobilization, NGO capacity building and Nexus. She is a certified trainer on PSEA and Leadership in Humanitarian and Fragile context.

Ms Stephanie Yousef
Deputy Regional Representative for MENA
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Stephanie has 10 years of experience working with local and international NGOs in the MENA region on different advocacy initiatives and research.

Before joining ICVA in 2020, Stephanie worked as the Country Program Manager for HelpAge International in Jordan, with a focus on policies and strategies related to ageing and disability.  She has also worked in the United States House of Representatives as Immigration and International Affairs Specialist. Stephanie has experience on promoting inclusion and localization agendas. She also has experience in conducting trainings on inclusive approaches to humanitarian and development interventions

She has a degree in International Relations focused on the Middle East, and a masters in Public Administration, both from universities in the US.

 

Ms Lina Gomez
ICVA Representative in Latin America
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Lina has a B.A in International Studies and a Master’s degree in Gender Studies. She worked on the “Mexican Migration Project” coordinated by PhD Jorge Durand and PhD Douglas Massey. She is currently a professor at the University of Guadalajara in the Department of International Studies where she teaches international migration and gender studies. She is part of the advisory group of UN Women in the Safe Cities program in Guadalajara. She also collaborates at the Inmujeres Guadalajara Advisory Council.

She works for Dignidad y Justicia en el Camino A.C. a local NGO member of ICVA located in Guadalajara where she serves as coordinator of the political and social advocacy area and as a focal point for the Americas.

Finance and Administration Team

Mr Nana Yaw
Cost and Management Accountant
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Nana brings nine years of experience in finance, grant management, audit, and security. His hands-on leadership, strong business acumen, and analytical skills make him highly adept at addressing underperforming trends from different perspectives.

Nana joined ICVA in 2023 as the Cost and Management Accountant. He is fluent in English, French, and Mandarin Chinese.

Currently, Nana is a doctoral researcher at Geneva Business School. He holds an MSc. in Management and International Business from Nottingham Trent University and a BSc. in Accounting from the University of Ghana. In his free time, he enjoys trying out new sports.

Ms Mylene Soto
Administration and Events Assistant
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Mylene supports the organization of events, meetings and conferences. She also provides administrative and logistical support functions for the effective running of the ICVA Secretariat.
Ms Aisha Ali
Operations Intern
Ms Stephanie Louvier
Operations Support Officer

Communications and Membership Team

Ms Fiona Wilkie
Operations Coordinator
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Fiona comes with over 20 years of experience of working in membership NGOs in service of a more equal, fairer and sustainable future.

She joined ICVA in 2014 where over the years she has utilised her expertise in membership management, communications and support to governance. Prior to ICVA, Fiona worked at the World YWCA in a similar role and before that in the  private sector.  Originally from Scotland, she has an educational background in Social Psychology and Social Anthropology and a masters in Business Administration.

Ms Edith Mecha
Communications Officer
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Edith comes with 8 years of experience working with local and international NGOs specialising in strategic communication, digital communication, graphics design and knowledge management.

She joined ICVA as a Communications Officer in 2021 where she supports the communication processes, tools and capacities for the implementation of ICVA’s Strategy. She also supports the Swahili hub under The Safeguarding Resource and Support Hub.

Prior to ICVA, Edith worked at Transparency and Accountability Initiative in Washington DC. She holds a degree in Linguistics and Media and a masters in Communication from the University of Colorado Denver.

Ms Ella Dalgliesh
Communications Intern
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Ella is a junior at Lafayette College, pursuing a double major in Anthropology & Sociology and Government & Law. Currently participating in a Boston University program in Geneva, focusing on International Law and Politics, she is deeply passionate about various human rights concerns, with a particular focus on forced migration issues.

Our History...

The International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) was established in 1962...
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Introduction

The International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA) was established in 1962 as the successor organisation of the Conference on Non-Governmental Organizations interested in Migration, the Standing Conference for Voluntary Agencies Working for Refugees, and the International Committee for World Refugee Year. The goal was to build cooperation in refugee matters and extend this out to other areas.  

Transformations from Past, Present to Future: NGO Perspectives

ICVA  commemorated its 60th anniversary on Wednesday, 18 May 2022 with an online event.

Transformations from past, present to future: NGO perspectives

Agenda:

  •  Opening by Ignacio Packer, ICVA Executive Director
  •  A chat with former  Executive Directors: Cyril Ritchie, Ed Schenkenberg van Mierop, and Nan Buzzard
  •  A panel discussion around the topics of the transformations (present and future)
  • Wrap up by Jane Backhurst, Chair of ICVA board

Watch the recording of the event.

ICVA at 60 - Transformation from past, present to future: NGO perspectives

1962 - 2022 Collaborating for Effective Humanitarian Action

To mark the 60th Anniversary ICVA published a decade-by-decade snapshot of ICVA’s first 60 years. It tells the story of its birth, evolution and maturity as an international mechanism for NGO humanitarian cooperation, highlighting changing areas of focus, core activities and major achievements.

Read the online version or download the pdf.

History
13 May 2022
ICVA at 60-1962 - 2022 Collaborating for Effective Humanitarian Action
Subject/ ICVA /
ICVA_at_60_image
Description

This review provides a decade-by-decade snapshot of ICVA’s first 60 years. It tells the story of its birth, evolution and maturity as an international mechanism for NGO humanitarian cooperation, highlighting changing areas of focus, core activities and major achievements.

There are two versions  – a downloadable pdf, and an interactive online version.

ICVA at 60 interviews

In the preparation of the ICVA at 60 document the consultant for the project conducted a series of interviews with Board and staff of ICVA, former and present. These conversations are available to listen to as podcasts.

Podcasts

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Anoop Sukurmaran
Subject/ History /
Anoop S
Description

This conversation between Anoop Sukumaran and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Anoop Sukurman  was elected Chair of ICVA in 2018.

Anoop talks about how ICVA has become a more inclusive organisation, the added value of the ICVA regional hubs, and the role of members in strengthening ICVA as a network.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Cyril Ritchie
Subject/ History /
Cyril-Ritchie
Description

This conversation between Cyril Ritchie and Robert White was recorded in  September 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Cyril Ritchie  was director of ICVA from 1964-1978, and again from 1990-1991.

Cyril talks about the importance of working together, how ICVA set the tone for cooperation, and how a  network is only as strong as its members.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Ed Shenkenberg
Subject/ History /
Ed-HERE-Executive-Director-scaled
Description

This conversation between Ed Shenkenburg and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. 

Ed Shenkenberg was director of ICVA from 1997-2012.

Ed talks about ICVA’s financial crisis in the late 90’s, ICVA’s humanitarian focus, interviewing the candidates for the UNHCR High Commissioner for Refugees, and the importance of collaboration.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Elizabeth Ferris
Subject/ History /
Beth Ferris Chair 2003-2006
Description

This conversation between Elizabeth Ferris and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Elizabeth served on the ICVA Board as vice chair from 1993-2003 and then as Chair 2003-2006.

Elizabeth talks about ICVA’s presence in Latin America in 1980’s, the humanitarian development divide, and the need for ICVA to be more outspoken.

 

 

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Faizal Perdaus
Subject/ History /
Faizal_perdaus
Description

This conversation between Faizal Perdaus and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. Faizal was the Chair of ICVA from 2015-2018.

Faizal talks about being the first ICVA chair from the global south, the challenges of localisation, and the importance of humanitarian sector to have a focus on the impacts of climate change.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with James Munn
Subject/ History /
JM
Description

This conversation between James Munn and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. James Munn  was an ICVA staff member from 2012-2015 and then served on the ICVA Board from 2019-2021.

Jamie talks about the operational realities of NGOs blurring the lines between humanitarian and development,  ICVA’s instrumental role  as interlocutor between the International  humanitarian system and national agencies, and challenges ICVA to be more courageous and outspoken in their advocacy.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Jane Backhurst
Subject/ History /
Jane Backhurst
Description

This conversation between Jane Backhurstand Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. Jane Backhurst, who was elected Chair of ICVA at the 18th General Assembly in May 2021, and represents Christian Aid.

Jane  talks about the localisation agenda, the importance of including leaders in the frontline of humanitarian crises, and ICVA’s response to the Covid 19 pandemic,

 

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Nan Buzard
Subject/ History /
Nan Buzard
Description

This conversation between Nan Buzzard and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Nan Buzzard was  Executive Director of ICVA from 2013-2017. 

Nan talks about how ICVA is an early adopter of issues, and how the issues of localisation and climate change will define the future.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Paul O'Brien
Subject/ History /
Paul OBrien Chair ICVA 2009-2012
Description

This conversation between Paul O’Brien and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. Paul was on the ICVA Board from 2006, and served as Chair from 2009-2012.

Paul talks about the need and challenge of involving local NGOs, how ICVA has been a catalyst for change, and that the need for coordination is even greater as with increasing humanitarian needs and complexity.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Penny Lawrence
Subject/ History /
Penny_Lawrence
Description

This conversation between Penny Lawrence and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Penny Lawrence was Chair of ICVA from 2012-2015.

Penny talks about setting up the ICVA regional hubs in Africa, Asia and the MENA region, and the shifting of power to members of the global south. She also talks about what inspired her during her time at ICVA.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Roger Yates
Subject/ History /
Roger Yates
Description

This conversation between Roger Yates and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. Roger was on the ICVA Board from 2012  to 2021 and was Chair of ICVA  for the final two years.

Roger talks about the benefit of ICVA to the sector as a whole, the importance of collaboration, and how ICVA’s role at the World Humanitarian Summit helped people understand and engage with the sector and took their engagement to another level.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Tanya Wood
Subject/ History /
Tanya Wood
Description

This conversation between Tanya Wood and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022. 

Tanya Wood was part of the ICVA staff from 2011-2014.

Tanya talks about the challenges of establishing the regional hubs, and questions the focus of ICVA.

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Tom Getman
Subject/ History /
tom Getman Chair ICVA 2006-2009
Description

This conversation between Tom Getman and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Tom Getman was Chair of ICVA from 2006-2009.

Tom  talks about his time as Chair of ICVA, about the practice and power of partnership, and the role of ICVA in the selection of the High Commissioner for UNHCR

Podcast
28 July 2022
Interview ICVA at 60 with Wossen Tesfaye
Subject/ History /
Wossen Tesfaye
Description

This conversation between Wossen Tesfaye and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

Wossen Tesfaye has been an ICVA Board member since 2018, representing African Humanitarian Action.

Wossen talks about the benefits for an African NGO to be part of ICVA, the added value of the regional hubs, and the increasing relevance of organisations like ICVA to help find global solutions to problems that are local in nature.

Podcast
28 July 2022
ICVA at 60 Interview with Steven Muncy
Subject/ History /
Steven Muncy
Description

This conversation between Steven Muncy and Robert White was recorded in July 2021 and is part of a collection of interviews with leaders of ICVA in the build-up to ICVA’s 60th anniversary in 2022.

History of ICVA

There are three older histories of ICVA.

  • A brief history of ICVA published in 1977
  • ICVA at Twenty-five published in 1987
  • ICVA at Forty-Something published in 2007

ICVA history
13 April 1977
A Brief History of ICVA Published in 1977
Subject/ ICVA /
A Brief History of ICVA
Description

A brief history on the beginning of the International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA). This document was published in 1977.

ICVA history
23 February 1987
ICVA at Twenty Five
Subject/ ICVA /
ICVA at twenty five
Description

In 1987 we commemorated our 25th anniversary. This was a testimony of our growth in membership and our work around addressing key issues of concern to NGOs involved in humanitarian assistance and development cooperation.

ICVA history
15 November 2007
ICVA at Forty-Something
Subject/ ICVA /
ICVA at 40
Description

Reaching middle age prompts many to start reflecting on their past. The same has been true with ICVA as it moved well into its forties. Over the years, ICVA, like any organisation, has kept track of its history, growth, and development. Two short histories of ICVA were previously written – the latest one being when ICVA turned 25. We felt that, more than 20 years later, it was time to produce a more comprehensive narrative of the story of ICVA.

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Current vacancies

Vacancy Notice
13 March 2024
Consultancy - Regional Information Management Advisor - Localization Barometer
Subject/ ICVA /
vacancy
Description

ICVA aims to develop a regional methodology to assess the localization of humanitarian responses in West and Central Africa. The project focuses on exchanging best practices, conducting evidence-based advocacy, and proposing concrete improvements to the localization agenda. The consultant will lead the development of the regional methodology and tools for data collection and visualization. Additionally, the identified countries will work with national researchers and NGO fora to adapt the framework to their contexts and determine relevant indicators for ownership.

Deadline for Applications – 24 March 2024

Click on the below link for more information.