Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) Yemen has kept 2,500 humanitarian staff connected across 49 organizations in 2025, despite operating at just 39% of its required budget, according to a recent update (ETC situation report).
The report added that as of 01 September, Security Operations Centres (SOCs) in Al Hodeidah, Hajjah, Ma’rib, Mokha, Mukallah and Sad’ah were suspended due to the deteriorating security situation. In September, service coverage has been reduced from 19 to five locations to sustain critical connectivity the worsening and security situation in Yemen led humanitarian agencies to implement teleworking and increased need for ETC services to support vital coordination and response activities.
From 22 to 24 September, the ETC, in coordination with key partners, finalized a revised Concept of Operations (CONOPS) for Yemen. The updated framework outlines targeted strategies to strengthen emergency communications in the southern region, ensuring humanitarian responders are equipped to operate effectively amid escalating needs and complex security conditions
The report Since January 2024, the ETC has operated under a full cost recovery, inter-agency cost- sharing model coordinated through the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO) and the Operations Management Team (OMT). And that In response to ongoing funding constraints, service realignments were initiated in March 2025 to streamline sites, reduce internet coverage, and adjust staffing levels to sustain essential connectivity.
The Emergency Telecommunications Cluster (ETC) is a global network of organizations that work together to provide shared communications services in humanitarian emergencies. The ETC is one of the 11 clusters designated by the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC).