English

The humanitarian sector is facing an unprecedented funding gap, and organisations are making hard choices in prioritising which populations to reach. This article outlines four principles for effective humanitarian boundary-setting.

Evidence from Colombia shows that results-based financing is an underused tool for forced displacement response; it can be used to overcome challenges around policy implementation and maximise programme impact and cost efficiency.

International sanctions placed on a conflict-affected State limit the ability of aid agencies to support civilians. In Syria, sanctions have had a profound impact on funding for humanitarian aid for forcibly displaced people.

UN refugee agencies depend heavily on the funding of just a few Western States. While reforming the funding system may help to fulfil the agencies’ mandate and maintain autonomy, preserving their legitimacy is crucial.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) a crisis of ongoing and protracted displacements and underfunding is forcing humanitarian actors to compromise on quality and coverage, making it harder for displaced people to rebuild their lives.

Access to formal banking systems would enable Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh to receive remittances through legal channels. This would bring benefits for the refugees, the humanitarian response, and Bangladesh’s economy and security.