The SPHERE handbook exists to improve the quality of humanitarian response in situations of disaster and conflict, and to enhance the accountability of humanitarian action to crisis-affected people. The latest (2018) update saw a shift towards mainstreaming cash and markets throughout both the technical chapters as well as a separate appendix on markets. Three of the four technical
chapters contains specific standards around using markets:
* Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Promotion: e.g. MBP for hygiene items, Replenishment of supplies, MBP for water,
* Food Security and Nutrition: e.g. Market access and cost of diet, Monitoring access to food, Food quality
* Shelter and Settlement: e.g. Market analysis for shelter goods and services, MBP for household items, Professional expertise and labour markets
An appendix ‘Delivering Assistance Through Markets’ – was a new addition to the 2018 update and supports the foundation and technical chapters.
