Persons affected by natural disasters, including those displaced by such events, remain entitled to the protection of international human rights law. At the same time, they may have particular needs which call for specific protection and assistance measurs that are distinct from those required by individuals that were not adversely affected by the disaster.

The Protection Cluster was established following the eartquake that struck Haiti on 12 January 2010 to ensure the protection of the rights of women, men, girls and boys that were adversely affected by the disaster. In coordination with the vulnerable persons, the Cluster identifies protection concerns and implements strategies and programs that reduce persons' vulnerabilities, hereby contributing to the enjoyment of human rights.