Civilian Protection : Promoting humanitarian principles

Why does the HD Centre promote Humanitarian Principles?

Armed actors are often unaware of the existence of humanitarian principles or their obligations to protect certain groups. In the specific context of peace negotiations, humanitarian issues often also fall to the side, even if the parties may express an interest in discussing them.

What is the HD Centre doing to address this issue?

Recognising that humanitarian issues are better addressed early in processes, the HD Centre strives to promote humanitarian principles in peace processes, including in its own mediation and facilitation work. This includes a set of practical activities that addresses issues such as protecting vulnerable populations in negotiations, and provides information on humanitarian principles in conflict. In addition, the HD Centre assists others in promoting humanitarian principles in peace negotiations. To that end, its humanitarian adviser has been seconded to support the joint UN/AU Sirte peace talks on Darfur, with the specific objective of ensuring that basic humanitarian issues, including civilian protection, are properly addressed in the process.