1 Introduction and Objectives

1.4 Organization of this Manual

The following chapters address five key aspects of humanitarian negotiations with armed groups. Chapter 2 examines the motivations and partners for humanitarian negotiations — the “why” and “who” of these negotiations. Chapter 3 describes how humanitarian principles and policies

can frame the negotiations for humanitarian actors, and how they can guide the process of negotiation. Chapter 4 provides practical guidance for those tasked with undertaking humanitarian negotiations across three phases of negotiation: Phase I – Preparation; Phase II – Seeking Agreement; and Phase III – Implementation. Chapter 5 explores additional considerations related to negotiation on specific issues. The body of the manual concludes with the implications of negotiation and follow-up to negotiation in Chapter 6. Examples from field experiences are included as short case studies throughout the manual.

Supplemental material is provided in three annexes: Annex I provides a worksheet to ‘map' the characteristics of armed groups; Annex II provides a summary listing of reference resources on humanitarian negotiations with armed groups; Annex III provides a glossary of key terms used in the manual.