Colombia is a highly complex context for humanitarian operations and, consequently, for the application of the CERF. Humanitarian needs in Colombia fall into two categories; those primarily related to conflict and those resulting from natural disasters; and each has a distinct set of political sensitivities with central government and separate national response systems. As a single and ostensibly coordinated international system works to respond to both sets of need, the ‘normal’ issues in implementing humanitarian reform are especially challenging. The international system struggles to create a space in which to undertake a somewhat autonomous response based on humanitarian principles, whilst simultaneously acknowledging the right of the government to lead activities. It is essential that the findings and recommendations of this review are placed firmly in context, where coordination, as well as conflict, continues to evolve.