This edition of Humanitarian Exchange focuses on the crisis in the Central African Republic (CAR), where spiralling violence has left thousands dead and more than a million displaced.

  • In her lead article, Enrica Picco highlights the slow and inadequate response to the crisis, and questions whether the humanitarian system has the will and capacity to respond in such contexts.
  • Alison Giffen and Marla Keenan argue that protecting civilians should be the top priority of MINUSCA, the new peacekeeping mission.
  • Emma Fanning emphasises the need for the mission to safeguard the distinction between humanitarian and political and military decision-making.
  • Josep Zapater explores strategies to protect Muslims besieged in Bangui.
  • Anthony Neal reports on efforts to promote reconciliation and enhance social cohesion.
  • David Loquercio reflects on his temporary deployment to CAR as an interagency coordinator responsible for promoting accountability.
  • Keith Chibafa reports on a pilot of a digital system to manage relief distributions.
  • Jacobo Quintanilla and Jonathan Pedneault discuss the role of the local media in enhancing dialogue and reconciliation.
  • Sean Maguire outlines the International Committee of the Red Cross’ support for health services
  • Diana Trimiño Mora and her co-authors describe the International Rescue Committee’s efforts to address violence against women and girls.
  • Lola Wilhelm presents the key findings from the Assessment Capacities Project’s recent analysis of humanitarian needs assessments.

Articles in the Practice and Policy Notes examine:

  • UNMISS’ experience of protection of civilians sites in South Sudan
  • The use of social protection systems to implement emergency cash transfers in Lesotho
  • Lessons on engagement with armed groups in Afghanistan and Somalia.

As always, we welcome any comments or feedback, which can be sent to hpn@odi.org.uk or to The Coordinator, 203 Blackfriars Road, London SE1 8NJ

Issue 62 articles