UNICEF in emergencies

Humanitarian access

In several emergencies around the world, humanitarian aid is being blocked from reaching the millions of people -many of them children- in desperate need of help. Access is often denied because it is viewed as contrary to the political and military objectives of a warring party. All armed groups have a direct responsibility, however, to protect civilian populations according to the Geneva Conventions and customary international humanitarian law. In addition, displaced persons and other victims of conflict are entitled to international protection and assistance where it is not available from their own national authorities.

Related documents

Respect for Humanitarian Mandates in Conflict Situations (IASC, 1996)
Today’s multiple and complex humanitarian crises pose challenges to the mandates and response capacities of the United Nations and the international community. The increasing demand for international action in internal conflicts is a reflection of a new dimension in international relations. This booklet describes the current situation and proposes guidelines for action.
Respect for Humanitarian Mandates in Conflict Situations [pdf]

Guidelines on Humanitarian Negotiations with Armed Groups (OCHA, 2006)
This set of guidelines is intended to provide concise advice and guidance to humanitarian practitioners on how to prepare for and conduct humanitarian negotiations with non-State armed groups.
Guidelines on Humanitarian Negotiations with Armed Groups [pdf]

Humanitarian Negotiations with Armed Groups: A Manual for Practitioners (OCHA, 2006)
For humanitarian workers, the ability to negotiate with all actors in situations of crisis or conflict is essential to effective and timely provision of humanitarian assistance and protection. This Manual provides a much-needed structured approach to humanitarian negotiations in a clear and user-friendly manner.
Humanitarian Negotiations with Armed Groups: A Manual for Practitioners [pdf]

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UNICEF in emergencies

Humanitarian access

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