Protection of Civilians

The concept of the Protection of Civilians (PoC) seeks to limit the effects of armed conflicts on civilian populations and is rooted in international humanitarian, human rights, and refugee law

The protection of civilians is a priority for humanitarian actors in conflict environments as they seek to address humanitarian need while ensuring that aid and intervention does not become a tool of conflict dynamics. In its ongoing analyses of armed conflicts and humanitarian crises policy recommendations by the Humanitarian Agenda seek to uphold and advance the status of civilian protection.

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The Truth of the Matter

Rescue in Ukraine

CSIS’s Jake Kurtzer joins the podcast to talk about the rescue of civilians stuck in the war-torn cities of Ukraine. 

Podcast Episode by H. Andrew Schwartz and Jacob Kurtzer — May 3, 2022

CSIS the truth of the matter

Spotlight on Civilian Harm in the Mariupol Theater Airstrike

A Russian airstrike destroyed the Mariupol Drama Theater on March 16, trapping hundreds of civilians who had taken refuge inside the building. Targeting of the theater is consistent with Russia’s pattern of attacking non-military objects and locations.

Commentary by Jacob Kurtzer, ​Marti Flacks, Matthew P. Funaiole, and Joseph S. Bermudez Jr. — March 21, 2022

Ukraine’s Regional Displacement Crisis

As many as 1.5 million people were displaced in Ukraine before the start of the Russian invasion. About 100,000 people are already moving within Ukraine due to the invasion, and this number is expected to rise significantly.

Commentary by Erol Yayboke — February 25, 2022

The Humanitarian Toll of Russia’s Invasion

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has generated widespread humanitarian consequences. While uncertainty remains over the course of the conflict, donors and humanitarian actors should act now to prepare for all contingencies in Ukraine and beyond.

Commentary by Jacob Kurtzer — February 25, 2022

The Long March to Peace: Key Obstacles to Overcome in Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the obstacles to peace remain in place. To give nascent talks a chance, the United States should use its leverage to press the parties to stop ongoing violence, end the de-facto humanitarian blockade of Tigray, and see the withdrawal of foreign forces.

Commentary by David Del Conte — February 10, 2022

The Civilian Impacts of a Possible Russian Invasion of Ukraine

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 by Jacob Kurtzer, Catherine Nzuki, Erol Yayboke, and Andrew Lohsen — February 2, 2022

Deconstructing Disarmament and Reconciliation Programs in Northeast Nigeria

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 by Jacob Kurtzer and Obi Anyadike — January 10, 2022

Lebanon’s Growing Humanitarian Crisis

A humanitarian emergency is growing among Lebanese. Overlaps in humanitarian responses risk fueling tensions and wasting limited aid resources. CSIS's Will Todman and Caleb Harper argue that an independent review is necessary to maximize the effectiveness of humanitarian aid.

Brief by Will Todman and Caleb Harper — December 16, 2021

Centering Civilian Protection in Northern Mozambique

Northern Mozambique’s humanitarian crisis continues to rapidly deteriorate. As foreign deployments commence, it is imperative that their mandates consider the fragile humanitarian situation on the ground and prioritize civilian protection.

Commentary by Emilia Columbo and Kelly Moss — July 21, 2021