Volunteer Opportunity: Sphere Handbook Revision Steering Committee-Deadline 19 Apr 2026

Sphere, a leading global humanitarian organization, is inviting nominations for its Revision Steering Committee for the upcoming edition of the Sphere Handbook. This presents a unique opportunity for experienced humanitarian professionals to actively contribute to shaping one of the most widely recognized standards in humanitarian response. By participating, members will help ensure that the Handbook continues to reflect the diverse perspectives, practical expertise, and values of the global humanitarian community.

The Steering Committee will operate under the oversight of the Sphere Governing Board and will play a central role in guiding the revision process. Committee members will provide governance support, strategic advice, and expert oversight to the team directly responsible for updating the Handbook. This initiative emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and the application of evidence-based humanitarian standards.

Key Responsibilities of the Steering Committee

The Steering Committee will hold a pivotal role in ensuring the Sphere Handbook remains a credible and authoritative resource. Its responsibilities include:

• Guiding the Scope of Revision: Ensuring that the updated Handbook meets the needs of diverse stakeholders, including humanitarian organizations, field practitioners, and affected communities.
• Providing Strategic Advice: Offering informed guidance to the core team managing the revision process, including prioritization of key themes and content areas.
• Decision-Making on Major Issues: Recommending actions on critical matters that may have significant operational or policy implications.
• Monitoring Progress: Overseeing the overall direction and management of the revision to ensure timely and effective completion.
• Conflict Resolution: Reconciling differences of opinion among stakeholders and resolving disputes that may arise during the revision process.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, the Steering Committee will help maintain the Handbook’s integrity, relevance, and inclusivity across humanitarian contexts.

Criteria for Appointment

Candidates for the Steering Committee should meet several key criteria to ensure they bring the right expertise and perspective to the revision process:

• Commitment to Sphere’s Mission: Demonstrated dedication to humanitarian principles and the values of Sphere.
• Strategic and Governance Experience: Proven ability to contribute to organizational oversight, decision-making, and high-level guidance.
• Humanitarian Expertise: Practical experience in humanitarian programming, operations, policy, or technical advisory roles.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Capacity to represent multiple perspectives, engage with stakeholders, and facilitate collaboration.
• Active Participation: Willingness to commit time, energy, and professional expertise throughout the revision process.
• Project Oversight Skills: Experience in managing complex projects, initiatives, or multi-stakeholder processes.
• Advocacy and Ambassadorship: Ability to champion the Handbook and its standards within the broader humanitarian sector.
• Promotion of Diversity and Inclusion: Commitment to ensuring balanced representation and consideration of diverse viewpoints within the Committee.

These criteria ensure that Steering Committee members are equipped to provide meaningful strategic guidance while representing the broader humanitarian community.

Composition of the Steering Committee

The Steering Committee is designed to include a range of expertise, perspectives, and stakeholders to ensure robust oversight and comprehensive input:

• Two Co-Chairs: Leading the Committee and coordinating activities.
• Sphere Focal Point: Representing Sphere’s internal governance and management.
• Civil Society, UN, ICRC/IFRC, and NGO Representatives: Bringing multi-stakeholder input and practical field perspectives.
• Technical Chapter or Thematic Working Group Members: Offering specialist knowledge in specific sectors or thematic areas.
• Additional Specialists: Consultants, advisers, and observers may be included as needed to provide expertise in areas critical to the revision.

This composition ensures the Committee balances strategic oversight with operational and technical insight while maintaining inclusivity and diversity.

How to Apply

Individuals interested in joining the Steering Committee or nominating candidates are encouraged to submit their nominations by 19 April 2026 through the official online form: Nomination Link.

Candidates should clearly demonstrate how their experience, expertise, and commitment to Sphere’s principles align with the objectives of the Steering Committee. This opportunity enables members to contribute to a globally recognized humanitarian standard, shaping the way humanitarian response is planned, delivered, and evaluated.

About Sphere

Sphere is recognized for promoting effective, accountable, and principled humanitarian action worldwide. Its Sphere Handbook provides guidelines, standards, and best practices across multiple sectors, serving as a cornerstone reference for humanitarian practitioners.

Through the Revision Steering Committee, Sphere ensures that the Handbook remains up-to-date, evidence-based, and reflective of the diverse needs and experiences of humanitarian actors. This process underscores Sphere’s commitment to collaboration, continuous improvement, and inclusion in global humanitarian standards.

Conclusion

The Sphere Handbook Revision Steering Committee represents an exceptional opportunity for experienced humanitarian professionals to influence the next edition of a globally recognized standard. Committee members will provide strategic guidance, oversee the revision process, and ensure the Handbook reflects the diverse perspectives of the humanitarian sector.

By participating, members will play a vital role in advancing the quality, accountability, and inclusivity of humanitarian action. Individuals with experience in governance, humanitarian operations, technical advisory roles, or stakeholder engagement are encouraged to consider nomination and contribute to shaping the future of global humanitarian standards.

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