Analysis

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Critical Questions
The Civilian Impacts of a Possible Russian Invasion of Ukraine
February 2, 2022 | Jacob Kurtzer, Andrew Lohsen, Catherine Nzuki, Erol Yayboke Concerns are growing over the impact a Russian invasion could have on civilians in Ukraine. The humanitarian picture is alarming, and an invasion could precipitate a crisis, the severity of which would depend on the location, length, and lethality of military operations.

Critical Questions
The Global Humanitarian Overview 2022: Climate, Gender, and Humanitarian Response
January 27, 2022 | Jacob Kurtzer The climate crisis, Covid-19, and armed conflict put an estimated 274 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in 2022. The scope of needs necessitates a shift in aid architecture, including in gender equity and funding models.

Commentary
Deconstructing Disarmament and Reconciliation Programs in Northeast Nigeria
January 10, 2022 | Jacob Kurtzer, Obi Anyadike Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs aim to change the battlefield and bring peace to northeast Nigeria, but they raise serious questions about resource prioritization and justice and accountability for perpetrators of violence.

Commentary
Aspirations to Action: Making the Refugee Compact Work for the Rohingya
December 16, 2021 | Jacob Kurtzer The success of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) in countries like Bangladesh lies on host country engagement on refugee policies and shared international responsibility to provide consistent, flexible funding and create greater opportunities for resettlement.

Critical Questions
U.S. Sanctions Squeeze Humanitarian Assistance in Afghanistan
September 29, 2021 | Jacob Kurtzer As the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan deteriorates, the U.S. government should work with all stakeholders to establish a safe payment channel for humanitarian and organizations and financial institutions to move urgently needed funds into Afghanistan.

Commentary
Four Years On: An Update on the Rohingya Crisis
August 26, 2021 | Jacob Kurtzer Four years after being forcibly displaced, 900,000 Rohingya refugees remain in Bangladesh with an uncertain future. The humanitarian community, donors, and Bangladesh government should coordinate an evidence- and needs-based strategy for long-term support.

Critical Questions
Humanitarian Suspensions and the Politicization of Aid in Ethiopia
August 12, 2021 | Jacob Kurtzer The Ethiopian government recently suspended three humanitarian organizations. These suspensions are a substantial escalation in the government’s targeting of humanitarian operations and a continuation of a broader pattern of aid obstruction.

Critical Questions
Boko Haram’s Leader Is Dead: What Are the Humanitarian and Security Implications?
June 15, 2021 | Jacob Kurtzer After more than a decade of terror, Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau is dead. While significant, the impact of Shekau’s death on security and humanitarian operations in northeast Nigeria is still unfolding.

Commentary
Consult the Community: Picking the Next UN Humanitarian Chief
March 9, 2021 | Jacob Kurtzer

The UN humanitarian chief plays a significant role in the global coordination of humanitarian aid. With the departure of the incumbent, Mark Lowcock, Secretary-General Guterres should conduct an inclusive and transparent process in choosing his successor.

Critical Questions
Colombia Makes History by Offering Protective Status to Displaced Venezuelans
February 19, 2021 | Erol Yayboke, Jacob Kurtzer

Colombia’s recent decision to provide temporary protective status to 1.7 million Venezuelans in the country should bring migrants out of the shadows and facilitate the social and economic integration of Venezuelans who have fled their home country's humanitarian crisis.

Commentary
Experts React: Urban Legends
December 8, 2020 | Caitlin Welsh, Erol Yayboke, Jacob Kurtzer The most pressing foreign policy challenges will likely unfold in rapidly urbanizing landscapes. By 2050, over two-thirds of the world population will live in urban areas, presenting challenges and opportunities for political, security, and development stakeholders.

Commentary
Sudan at a Crossroads: A Humanitarian Opening?
August 5, 2020 | Jacob Kurtzer A year into Sudan’s political transition, humanitarian agencies continue to struggle with delivering assistance to people in need. Jacob Kurtzer and Nadia Schaaphok analyze new challenges presented by Covid-19 and the political dynamics complicating aid operations.

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