This is the first collection of core humanitarian instruments developed by the United Nations (UN) and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) on civil-military relationship in complex emergencies. Its goal is to help promote respect for international law, standards and principles in these situations.

Written in a practical, user-friendly style and bringing together the essential guidance materials on the subject, the Booklet aims to assist humanitarian and military professionals to handle civil-military issues in a manner that respects and reflects humanitarian concerns at the strategic, operational and tactical levels.

Whether it be for peacekeeping, peace-enforcement, armed conflict or even occupation, readers will find useful guidance on such questions as: why are principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, independence and distinction so vital to civil-military coordination in humanitarian emergencies? When and how should humanitarian actors coordinate with the military? What is meant by the concept of ‘last resort’ and how do we mobilise military assets when necessary? Who should provide armed escorts to humanitarian convoys, when, and under what circumstances? In what ways can we prevent unnecessary militarisation of aid?