Index for risk management - INFORM : concept and methodology, version 2015

This report describes the concept and methodology of the composite Index For Risk Management (INFORM). The INFORM initiative began in 2012 as a convergence of interests of UN agencies, donors, NGOs and research institutions to establish a common evidence-base for global humanitarian risk analysis. An initial version (version 2014) was completed and a first report published in January 2014, and was used in a 10 month process of peer review, user consultation and methodological improvements. The current report is an updated version (version 2015), reflecting the outcome of that process. INFORM identifies the countries at a high risk of humanitarian crisis that are more likely to require international assistance. The INFORM model is based on risk concepts published in scientific literature and envisages three dimensions of risk: Hazards & Exposure, Vulnerability and Lack of Coping Capacity. The INFORM model is split into different levels to provide a quick overview of the underlying factors leading to humanitarian risk. The INFORM index supports a proactive crisis and disaster management framework. It will be helpful for an objective allocation of resources for disaster management as well as for coordinated actions focused on anticipating, mitigating, and preparing for humanitarian emergencies.