2  Introduction

The Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) is a system to gather and analyse data to disseminate critical multi layered information on the mobility, vulnerabilities, and needs of displaced and mobile populations that enables decision makers and responders to provide these populations with better context specific assistance.. DTM was first conceptualized in 2004 to monitor internal displacement in Iraq and has since been adapted for implementation in over 80 countries, including in contexts of conflict, climate change, disaster, complex emergencies and protracted crises.

DTM is used across various stages of a humanitarian response – commonly during the emergency phase to inform planning and assistance and to inform preparedness activities or transition and recovery programming. Implementation may support a cluster or another stakeholder with targeted information needs or may be intended to contribute to common services and coordination more broadly. In other cases, it may be designed to support host governments to apply methods and tools tested during previous crises.

DTM’s effectiveness in meeting varying objectives in a diverse range of contexts relies on its ability to maintain a lightweight, flexible and modular structure, enabling quick adjustments and adaptation. To preserve operational flexibility, while promoting quality and coherence across DTM activities, this Framework outlines various components, tools and methods that have proven effective for quantifying displacement and mobility in DTM operations worldwide. As global displacement continues to evolve, the scope of DTM’s work has expanded from emergency contexts to increasingly protracted and fragile contexts. To adequately respond to such information needs, DTM has developed new tools and methodologies under the Solutions and Mobility Index.1

DTM is a collaborative mechanism. Partnerships and participation on key inter-agency and multi-stakeholder initiatives on data at strategic and technical level ensure the relevance and alignment of DTM’s methods, tools and processes to global standards and best practices. This includes its links and contributions to the International Recommendations on IDP Statistics (IRIS), Joint Inter-sectoral Analysis Framework (JIAF), IASC Operational Guidance on Data Responsibility in Humanitarian Action, and other relevant frameworks.

Given the complex and dynamic nature of many contexts where DTM is deployed, tailoring an appropriate approach can be challenging and requires an understanding of the characteristics, advantages and limitations of available components, methods and tools. Though flexibility and adaptation are encouraged, certain standards and obligations apply regardless of the method or approach selected. The sections below aim to capture good practices from past operations, presenting the framework within which DTM exercises are designed; the process for selecting and combining components, methods and tools to meet specific objectives; considerations for evaluating and mitigating limitations and risks; and guidance to ensure key principles are upheld.

  1. For more information on DTM’s Solutions and Mobility Index visit dtm.iom.int/solutions↩︎