Human Rights Support Mechanism Rapid Response Mechanism Midterm Performance Evaluation: Best Practices For Rapid Response

Opportunities for improvement can also arise suddenly, including as champions for reform assume positions of power, as social movements rapidly coalesce, and as policy debates suddenly place human rights at the forefront of public dialogue. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has a variety of mechanisms, including rapid response instruments, to quickly and effectively address these needs and opportunities. Agreement Officer Representatives (AORs) were recently granted greater authority to approve revisions to Associate Awards in recognition that "USAID must be able to readily adapt programs in response to changes in context and new information." In addition, USAID's Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI) assists countries undergoing transition from authoritarian regimes. OTI assistance typically lasts 3-4 years, tailoring rapid, flexible awards to the specific transition and stabilization needs. HRSM's Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM) has been used widely by USAID Missions in the past 5 years. Forty awards in 32 countries or regions have been made under HRSM's RRM as of April 2021; approximately 53 percent addressed the needs of populations facing targeted discrimination or high levels of risk/violations, including people with disabilities, the LGBTQI population, and women. The midterm performance evaluation of the HRSM RRM conducted from April to July of 2021 found high levels of satisfaction with the mechanism among USAID staff and implementing partners, with a broad perception that it is making a vital contribution to human rights programming for those Missions using it. The HRSM RRM has carved out a unique role distinct from and complementary to other rapid response programs. Its broad mandate to focus on any human rights issues anywhere in the world, emphasis on significant support (at least 70% of direct costs) to local partners, and ability to rapidly dispense funds distinguishes it from other mechanisms. Diverse stakeholders report that the RRM has been quite effective in achieving its objectives; one key informant stated that "this program was extremely effective because it achieved the goal of keeping people safe." Given its success, USAID is likely to continue providing rapid response funding in human rights and other areas. Future iterations of the HRSM RRM should be informed by the following lessons derived from an assessment of the mechanism. First, locally led activities should be promoted, with a focus on ensuring that the majority of funds go directly to local stakeholders. Second, Missions should be aware of RRM options to effectively respond to localized crises. Third, parameters for RRM awards should be clarified to balance flexibility and accountability. Fourth, intentionally allowing for extensions of RRM activities will enable adaptability in response to changing contexts. Fifth, reporting and record-keeping requirements should be tailored to programmatic needs, and monitoring, evaluation, and learning should be included to the extent possible. Finally, continuous coordination with donors is essential to avoid redundancy and ensure effective donor coordination.