Once Removed: Lessons and challenges in remote management of humanitarian operations for insecure areas

As the humanitarian space is shrinking and more violent assault are addressed against aid workers, remote operations are a new way for international humanitarian agencies to continue assisting civil populations while protecting their staff. This paper is evidence-based and gathers policy consultations to governments and international organisations about their humanitarian response efforts. It focuses on the practice of remote management in humanitarian assistance and takes as an illustrative example, the case study of Afghanistan in November and December 2009. This paper presents trends, risks and practices of remote operations. Key considerations as well as challenges are drawn out.