Protection Field Coordination Toolkit - Chapter 8: Cluster Transition, Deactivation and Reform

Chapter 8: Cluster Transition, Deactivation and Reform

This chapter is part of the GPC Protection Field Coordination Toolkit. The Toolkit can be used by all Protection Clusters and cluster-like mechanisms – such as Protection Sectors and Protection Working Groups – working within the cluster system framework. This guidance is also available to partners and other organisations who want to understand the principles and practices of protection coordination.

Overview Chapter 8

Clusters are timebound mechanisms activated during humanitarian crises to address coordination gaps. This chapter explores criteria and processes for cluster transition, deactivation, and reform while ensuring that protection principles remain central to all decisions.

This chapter contains:

• Criteria for cluster activation and deactivation.
• Processes for transitioning clusters and considerations for deactivation.
• Key principles and steps for effective transition and reform.
• Introduction to humanitarian reform initiatives and area-based coordination.

Toolkit Chapters:

• Ch.1: Humanitarian Coordination Overview 
• Ch.2: Humanitarian Programme Cycle  
• Ch.3: Internal Displacement 
• Ch.4: Protection in Armed Conflict 
• Ch.5: Centrality of Protection 
• Ch.6: Climate, Disaster, and Sudden Onset Emergencies 
• Ch.7: Durable Solutions 
• Ch.8: Cluster Transition, Deactivation and Reform 
• Ch.9: Advocacy and Communication 
• Ch.10: Data Responsibility and Safe Information Management 
• Ch.11: Cross-Cutting Issues (AGD, MPHSS, AAP, PSEA, Protection Mainstreaming) 
• Ch.12: Understanding Programmatic Approaches and Interventions