WHO WE ARE
The Global Protection Cluster (GPC) is a network that brings together local, national and international actors advancing the protection of communities affected by humanitarian crises around the world.
We are mandated by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC), the longest-standing and highest-level humanitarian coordination forum. We are led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and are governed by a Strategic Advisory Group (SAG). We function through a multi-partner operational global team.
In line with the Humanitarian Reset launched in 2025, the Protection Cluster and its former Areas of Responsibility (AoR) - Child Protection, Gender-Based Violence and Mine Action – have integrated into one consolidated Protection Cluster, in which the technical expertise and capacity on Child Protection, Gender-Based Violence and Mine Action is maintained. The former Housing, Land and Property Area of Responsibility is moving to the newly established and consolidated Shelter, Land and Site Coordination Cluster, while still keeping strong operational and strategic linkages with the Protection Cluster. You can read more about the Protection Cluster consolidation here: Positioning Protection in Humanitarian Action 2025 | Global Protection Cluster
Our vision and mission
Our Vision
Our Mission
Where we Work
Country Protection Clusters
The Global Protection Cluster supports country Protection Clusters in more than 20 contexts. The core rationale and mandate of the GPC is to provide strategic guidance and technical support to country operations in the fulfilment of their core functions.
As described by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee, a Cluster at national level has six (plus one) core functions to ensure the effective coordination of humanitarian response.
Our structure and Governance
The GPC functions through a multi-partner operational team. We provide day-to-day support and strategic advice and guidance to country-level Protection Clusters and partners. The team supports country Protection Clusters to elevate their advocacy efforts, while also engaging in global advocacy and policy fora to advance protection outcomes.
We also have a Strategic Advisory Group (SAG), which provides strategic direction and advice to the GPC and supports monitoring the implementation of the GPC strategic frameworks and annual work plans.
The GPC is also supported through Working Groups, Task Teams and Communities of Practice, which are time-bound bodies aiming to support the GPC and Protection Clusters and partners on specific areas of work.