A firm understanding of the legal framework regulating humanitarian relief operations in situations of armed conflict is essential for all those with a role to play in ensuring that people in need have the best chance of accessing and receiving life-saving assistance. While the parties have clear legal obligations, the day-to-day reality is that humanitarian access is a matter for negotiation between parties to an armed conflict and those seeking to conduct humanitarian relief operations, and is not achieved simply by making demands.
The Oxford Guidance addresses such issues as whose consent is required for cross-border humanitarian relief operations, what amounts to arbitrary withholding of consent, and what parties must do to fulfil their obligation to allow and facilitate relief operations.
This document will enhance understanding of the rules of international law that are relevant to humanitarian operations in armed conflict, promote further discussion, and inform policies and advocacy strategies for improving humanitarian access to conflict-affected populations.
