The Partner Relations Department

The Partner Relations Department is pivotal in fostering communication, collaboration, and partnerships for the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS). It aligns these efforts with global humanitarian goals and principles, specifically focusing on Strategic Goal 3. This involves strengthening the understanding of MRCS’s auxiliary role within the humanitarian sector. The department achieves this by developing a robust, well-functioning, and resourceful National Society through the expansion of national and international cooperation, coordination, and partnership mechanisms within the existing framework.

The Department’s Core Responsibilities:

Communication and Coordination with Health Ministry and Other Ministries:

This department serves as a pivotal link between the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) and governmental bodies, primarily the Ministry of Health (MoH). It also manages communication with foreign embassies in Myanmar and Myanmar’s embassies and missions abroad. Its primary goal is to ensure the seamless exchange of information and facilitate collaboration related to the presence of international representatives in Myanmar, particularly concerning visa and travel authorization for their project activities.

International Partnerships:

The department actively engages in establishing and nurturing partnerships with international organizations. It collaborates closely with existing partners and explores opportunities for having new partners, thereby enhancing MRCS’s capacity to fulfill its humanitarian mission.

Interactive and Relationship Communications:

A significant aspect of this department’s role is to maintain interactive and amicable relationships with both Movement and non-Movement partners. This involves ongoing dialogue and fostering relationships to create a positive environment for cooperation and collaboration.

Supporting International Policy and Planning:

The department contributes to the formulation of MRCS’s international policies and planning. By aligning MRCS’s activities with global trends and initiatives, it helps the organization promote globalization while adhering to its humanitarian principles.

Coordination with International NGOs (INGOs):

To support MRCS’s humanitarian endeavors, the department collaborates with international non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This collaboration involves activities such as donations and cooperative efforts, ensuring MRCS’s work receives adequate support.

Facilitating Training and Seminars:

The department is responsible for facilitating training, study visits, and participation in international seminars for MRCS staff and volunteers. These initiatives empower the organization with the knowledge and skills needed to meet global humanitarian standards.

Memorandum of Cooperation/Understanding:

A significant function of the department is assisting in the preparation and signing of Memorandums of Cooperation or Understanding/Agreements with both Movement and non-Movement partners. These agreements formalize partnerships and outline the terms of collaboration.

Liaison with Technical Departments/Units:

The department acts as a focal point for liaising with Movement and non-Movement partners. It identifies the relevant technical departments and units within MRCS to ensure that follow-up actions and discussions proceed smoothly.

Courtesy Meeting, Movement Coordinating Meetings and Appointments: Effective coordination and cooperation are essential for MRCS’s relationships with partners. The department plays an important role in scheduling necessary meetings and appointments with MRCS and in-country Movement partners, streamlining interactions.

Monitoring and Strengthening Partner Relationships:

The department monitors the relationships and communications between various departments and units within MRCS and its partners. It provides support to strengthen these relationships, promoting effective collaboration.

Facilitating Partnership Review Talk (PRT):

This department plays a vital role in organizing and facilitating Partnership Review Meetings with each partner every two years. These meetings serve as a platform for evaluating ongoing partnerships, addressing challenges, and planning for future cooperation.

Facilitating Partnership Review Meetings:

Lastly, this department leads in organizing the prime occasion for MRCS and partners to assess and monitor the framework’s progress through a series of key partnership indicators. It also serves as an opportunity to renew commitment to the framework and willingness to partner with the National Society. The Partnership Review Meeting is held regularly every two years.