The Oxford guidance on the law relating to humanitarian relief operations in situations of armed conflict : an introduction

Abstract

In many, if not most, armed conflicts, far more deaths occur as a result of the humanitarian crisis created by the conflict rather than from hostilities or the use of force. In addition to those who die as a result of a lack of food, water, access to medical care or adequate sanitation, untold suffering is caused in conflicts across the globe to millions of other civilians. However, in many recent conflicts humanitarian actors have faced serious challenges in delivering much -needed relief supplies and services to civilians in need. Humanitarian access has become a central challenge to the protection of civilians in armed conflict. Belligerants often impede the delivery of much needed humanitarian relief supplies exacerbating hunger, disease and want. The United Nations Secretary -General, in his recent reports to the Security Council on the Protection of Civilians, has identified improving access for humanitarian operation as one of the five “core challenges” to enhancing the protection of civilians in armed conflict.