Effectiveness of coordination in humanitarian water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) response: evidence from a mixed-methods evaluation of outcomes and outputs across five national coordination platforms

We found that incorporating the ToC into the Minimum Requirements successfully supported humanitarian WASH responses. Additionally, while staffing levels are necessary to achieve response outputs and outcomes, they are not sufficient. Other factors, such as poor funding, inadequate monitoring and evaluation, and a need for localization, also impacted response outputs and outcomes. In a time of reduced humanitarian funding, investment in Global WASH Cluster coordination has shown to enhance response outputs and outcomes. Recommendations include dedicating staffing, developing standardized monitoring and assessment tools, strengthening inter-sectoral collaboration, and continuing accountability to affected populations. Further research on monitoring and evaluation, funding, affected population needs, and sub-national coordination is indicated.