LAUSR

Providing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) to emergency-affected populations is necessary for dignity and disease control. Humanitarian response is coordinated via the 'cluster approach'. We summarized the outcomes and impacts of WASH cluster coordination using; literature review; UNICEF document review; and, key informant interviews. Across these three data sets, consistent themes were identified, including: the cluster approach evolved into a cost-effective 'best-fit' model; cluster staff require technical and coordination skills; context is related to cluster performance; and, there are trade-offs of cluster participation for members. Additionally, consistent intractable challenges were identified, including: accountability to beneficiaries; cross-cluster and sub-national cluster coordination; working with national governments; and, transition to post-emergency. We found previous research was largely subjective and did not address future cluster challenges. Evaluation of cluster outcomes and impacts, including member and beneficiary perspectives is needed. To enable this research, a theory of change for cluster coordination was also developed. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.