Since its inception, UNICEF has provided life-saving assistance and assured protection for children in both natural and man-made emergencies, guided by the principle that children in crises have the same needs and rights as children in stable situations. This new version of the Emergency Field Handbook has been developed as a practical tool for UNICEF field staff to meet the needs of children and women affected by disasters. It is the result of extensive consultation and is an essential reference tool for use by UNICEF staff and partners. The CD-ROM version contains the complete electronic version of the Handbook, as well as useful links to background and reference documents.