Core indicators specific to the context in which a cluster is operating is one of the most important components of both assessment coordination and activity tracking, which is why effort should be dedicated to develop a list that is endorsed by all partners and relevant stakeholders. A list of core need indicator will allow for assessments conducted in country to be comparable with each other and to measure progress over time. Same goes for outcome indicators, that allow to track activities, and analyse gaps, at the cluster level.

In December 2024, the Global Shelter Cluster (GSC) compiled all 5W indicators used by national Shelter Clusters and Sectors to develop a standardized list. Once this list was harmonized, a mapping exercise was conducted with each national Shelter Cluster to integrate the standard indicators into their respective 5W reporting tools. The GSC then consolidated the 5W data received for the first quarter of 2025 into a master dataset, enabling an initial analysis of the overall scope and nature of the Shelter responses.

Refer to the most updated GSC_standardized shelter indicators_03072025.xlsx and its guidelines

• 2Bi. Refer to these GSC guidelines for core indicators for more information.
• 2Bii, 2Biii & 2Biv. Other sources, such as the Sphere standards, Humanitarian Indicators, and inter-sector JIAF SNFI Indicators (subject to revision in 2021)  on shelter and settlements are also an important point of reference when developing a country specific list.
• 2Bv. The 2022 MSNA indicators were used across MSNAs implemented in 2022 ahead of the 2023 HNOs, and can be used as a reference point to develop in-country core shelter needs indicator.