Effectively translating science into both operational and policy action is a nearly universal challenge; in an emergency, aligning the interests of scientists and policy makers can be especially difficult. In an effort to minimise uncertainty and harness existing knowledge, scientists often focus on...
Background The novel coronavirus pandemic represents the biggest threat to lives, livelihoods and economies since the Second World War (WWII). It is already rapidly reshaping societies and economies, changing the way people interact, the way they work and the fabrics of their lives. In April this...
Introduction Since its inception, UNICEF’s mandate has involved the rapid response to humanitarian crises. Our continuing presence in more than 150 countries and territories means that we are often on the spot long before, and long after, a crisis or unstable situation occurs. UNICEF’s role in...
Oxfam's humanitarian policy notes set out our learning on a wide range of issues affecting humanitarian action around the world. They are the best place to find short summaries of Oxfam's experience and views on global humanitarian issues. The current titles cover subjects directly affecting...
Last March, the devastation caused by Cyclone Idai claimed more than 1,000 lives and displaced tens of thousands of people in Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe. The situation at the time was catastrophic. With wind speeds of about 200 kilometres per hour, the cyclone hit the poorest the hardest...
With Turkey leaving the border open for 72 hours, many refugee families are making their way cross over into Europe. A large number of Syrian refugees are heading toward Europe through Turkish border towns, following the announcement by Turkish officials that the country can no longer afford to...
This article highlights Mohammed Ghanim, a Yemeni program officer for WFP, who is living and working in Yemen, currently the site of one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. He describes the reality of life on the ground, the role of the WFP, and his hopes for the country. In the last few years...