Where Are They Now? How the Slovak Red Cross Took Control of Their Data

In response to widespread displacement caused by the escalation of hostilities in Ukraine, the Slovak Red Cross, together with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (FICR), implemented a rental assistance programme, providing safe and dignified shelter to those in need. To this end, the Netherlands Red Cross’ data and digital team, 510, developed a Shelter Information Management (IM) Platform for the Slovak Red Cross to streamline data collection and management, and communicate with programme participants. To date, the Shelter IM platform has supported 748 families in Slovakia with timely and effective assistance. Inspired by this success, the Slovak Red Cross has taken a significant leap by independently running their own data management system, beyond its original purpose. Supported by FICR and the Netherlands Red Cross, these activities introduced during the regional emergency response are now shaping a sustainable, data-driven approach to the National Society’s programming.

How data management boosts locally led humanitarian action

Gestion des données equips National Societies with the information needed to optimize response efforts. 510’s approach to building data management capacities puts National Societies in the driving seat of their own digitalization journey, strengthening the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement’s collective impact and ability to assist more people in less time. Open-source data management tool EspoCRM is a key enabler in this effort, offering a flexible solution tailored to context-specific needs. This way, National Societies can manage programmes while ensuring data integrity. With 18 EspoCRM instances currently serving 26 National Societies, these easy-to-manage systems support sustainable, locally led action. The Slovak Red Cross, now the official owner of their EspoCRM data management system, joins the ranks of National Societies fully in charge of managing their data for a wide range of programmes – from Greece à Ukraine, Kenya and Somalia.

“When the Slovak Red Cross launched the Shelter programme, EspoCRM was proposed to enhance monitoring and reporting capacities, followed by trainings for staff to use the system. This way, we have established consistent data collection and reporting habits.”

Artsiom Klunin, Information Management Officer at the Slovak Red Cross

Building capacities for the future

Based on the positive experience with the EspoCRM-based Shelter IM Platform, the Slovak Red Cross has recognized the value of maintaining and expanding the tool to support future humanitarian initiatives, beyond the Ukraine response. The National Society has transitioned to hosting and managing their own system – a major milestone on the journey to locally led action. To ensure a smooth transition, the 510 team supported the Slovak Red Cross in building staff capacities to navigate the system effectively. Today, the National Society’s EspoCRM platform is seamlessly integrated into their broader humanitarian programming, making its response capabilities future-proof.

“EspoCRM provides structured and systematized data, enabling us to make evidence-based decisions and manage operations efficiently. We are now gradually scaling up its use to cover all services provided by the Slovak Red Cross, beyond emergency response.”

Artsiom Klunin, Information Management Officer at the Slovak Red Cross

A model for other National Societies

The Slovak Red Cross’ ownership of this digital tool illustrates a shift from emergency response to a sustainable, localized system. Rather than relying on external support for data management, the National Society has developed internal expertise to run programmes independently. This journey demonstrates how National Societies can transition from short-term humanitarian operations to long-term self-sufficiency by embedding digital tools into their workflows. Looking ahead, the Slovak Red Cross is committed to expand this unified, interconnected and data-driven humanitarian response system. In another step to further digitalize its operations, the National Society is also exploring the usage of the 121 Plate-forme for a cash-for-health programme which aims to cover the prescription costs of individuals in need.

By adopting and localizing tools, the National Society sets an example for others looking to strengthen their data management capabilities. At 510, we are ready to support other National Societies on a similar journey: helping them set up customised and self-sustaining systems that enhance humanitarian impact. If your National Society is looking for support in building or improving its own data management system, we are here to help. Together, we can develop solutions that are easy to use, maintain, and adapt to your specific needs.

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