Membership Criteria & Application Process of the Humanitarian Response Network (HRN)

The Humanitarian Response Network (HRN) brings together organizations committed to advancing effective, collaborative humanitarian action. Membership provides opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and participation in initiatives that strengthen the humanitarian sector in Canada and globally. For more information on HRN’s five-year Strategic Plan framework, please visit HRN Mission & Strategic Framework. 

1. Eligibility Criteria 

Prospective members may include not-for-profit organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), networks/coalitions, and multilaterals who: 

  • Are willing to actively engage in HRN initiatives, events, and discussions. 
  • Demonstrate a commitment to humanitarian principles and practices. 
  • Actively engaged in humanitarian programming (including direct implementation or through local partners) at an international level. 
  • Have been registered, as a non-profit, in Canada for at least one year. 
  • Provide a letter of recommendation from an existing HRN member or a recognized humanitarian professional familiar with the applicant’s work. 
  • Are committed to knowledge sharing and collaboration, including exchanging lessons learned, best practices, and contributing to collective initiatives. 

2. Two-Step Application Process 

To ensure a cohesive and engaged community, all prospective members must meet the following criteria and complete a two-step application process. 

Step 1 – Statement of Interest and Supporting Documents 

Prospective members begin by submitting: 

  • Statement of Interest: A brief description of why the organization wishes to join HRN and how it aligns with the network’s mission. 
  • Letter of Recommendation: One letter from a current HRN member or recognized humanitarian professional. 
  • Proof of Activity in Canada: Documentation demonstrating that the organization has been actively operating in Canada for at least one year. Acceptable evidence may include:
    • Annual reports or audited financial statements covering the past year.  
    • Records of programs, projects, or services delivered in Canada (e.g., activity reports, program summaries, or impact reports). 
  • Proof of Incorporation: Be federally or provincially incorporated in Canada as a non-profit. 

The HRN Manager reviews these materials. Once approved, applicants proceed to Step 2. 

Step 2 – Full Membership Application 

After Step 1 approval, applicants complete the full membership application, which includes: 

  • Detailed organization profile and key contact information. 
  • Information on organizational scope, activities, and revenue related to humanitarian work. 
  • Ethical compliance questions covering: 
    • Humanitarian Principles (Humanity, Neutrality, Impartiality, Independence)
    • Geneva Conventions and Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS)
    • Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse & Harassment (PSEAH)
    • Anti-terrorism compliance in Canada and internationally 

The HRN Manager reviews these materials and validates eligibility. In rare cases, the ex-com may provide guidance. The HRN Manager will inform the applicant of the final membership decision.  

All new members will attend an introductory meeting conducted by the HRN Manager or a member of the Ex-com. 

3. Membership Responsibilities 

Members are expected to: 

  • Uphold HRN’s mission and strategic mission.  
  • Actively participate in network events, working groups, and knowledge-sharing initiatives. 
  • Contribute to collaborative projects and support the growth of the humanitarian sector. 
  • Pay their annual dues based on their international programming annual revenue as outlined here. 

4. Membership Review 

  • Membership is subject to annual renewal (June-July cycle). 
  • The HRN Executive Committee reviews member engagement to ensure continued alignment with HRN’s mission and active participation. 

5. Observer Status (Free) 

The Observer Status allows organizations to stay connected to HRN’s work without holding full membership. Observers are included in relevant communications and may be invited to selected member meetings, consultations, or learning sessions at the network’s discretion.  

Who can apply: 

  • Academic or research institutions engaged in humanitarian studies, policy, or capacity-building. 
  • Government entities involved in humanitarian programming, policy, or coordination. 
  • Foundations supporting humanitarian initiatives or funding humanitarian programs. 
  • Other networks with relevant humanitarian engagement that wish to stay informed and participate in knowledge-sharing opportunities. 

Eligibility criteria: 

  • Demonstrates a connection to or active engagement in humanitarian work. 
  • Interested in participating in HRN discussions, learning opportunities, and collaborative initiatives. 

Observers do not have voting rights, cannot be part of the Executive Committee (ExCom), and do not have guaranteed access to all member-only spaces, but this status enables ongoing exchange, collaboration, and access to selected HRN initiatives. 

HRN welcomes organizations committed to collaborative humanitarian work, including those undertaking international projects, fostering a professional, inclusive, and supportive community. 

Want to learn more or explore joining the network as a full member or an observer? Contact us at hrncoordinator@humanitarianresponse.ca to get started.