Created in 1993, Groupe URD is an independent institute which specializes in the analysis of practices and the development of policy for the humanitarian and post-crisis sectors.

From 1993 to 1997, Groupe URD was an NGO discussion group which focused on linking emergency and development aid. After 1997, it broadened its horizons in response to the numerous theoretical and operational challenges faced by the aid sector in crisis and post-crisis contexts. Its role is to help organizations to improve the quality of their programmes through evaluations, research, Quality support and training.

In order to work close to field realities and to share lessons, Groupe URD has established several observatories of aid practices - currently in Haiti, and formerly in Chad and in Afghanistan.

Current research activities concentrate on the relationship between private and state humanitarianism (especially through the French military); partnerships in unstable situations; from free gift to cost-recovery; the cultural, social, economic and political components of violence and security in conflict; and conflict prevention: political myth or operational reality.

Activities
Research
Groupe URD carries out operational research projects and thematic or cross-sector studies.

These aim to improve understanding of the issues facing humanitarian actors and the dynamics of crisis and post-crisis contexts in order to suggest ways in which they can improve and adapt their practices.

This research leads to the development of tools and methods like the Participation Handbook and the Quality COMPAS method. 

Evaluation
Groupe URD is a recognised international leader in the evaluation of aid. Our experienced team uses rigourous and innovative methodology such as the Quality COMPAS, iterative evaluation or the use of video.

Evaluations can take the form of needs assessments, real-time evaluations, end of project evaluations or M&Eand can focus on programmes, specific themes, geographic areas, etc.

Groupe URD is a member of the Société Française d’Evaluation and the Active Learning Network for Accountability and Performance in Humanitarian Action (ALNAP)

Training
Groupe URD runs professional training courses in France and abroad, at our headquarters and in the field. These are aimed at NGOs, UN agencies, institutional bodies, etc.

Quality Support
Groupe URD has been a pioneer on issues of quality in humanitarian aid. We develop tools and provide organisational support. We developed the COMPAS Quality assurance method and provide expert advice to accompany organisations in the process of adopting a Quality approach. For a number of years, we have also been involved in the integration of new technologies into the humanitarian sector; we have facilitated the collective development of Sigmah, open source software for the shared management of international aid projects.