Counter Terrorism, Sanctions and Humanitarian Access in COVID-19

This article will look at the impact of counterterrorism and sanctions measures on principled humanitarian action in the context of COVID-19 pandemic. It will also explore the daily operational challenges faced by humanitarian organizations as they carry out their work, as echoed in a growing body of research. This includes, though are not limited to, difficulties to the independent selection of beneficiaries, to carrying out bank transfers, to engagement with non-state armed groups and to the provision of healthcare to people in need in sanctioned jurisdictions. The need to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic has brought new urgency to these issues as pre-existing constraints in parts of the world, despite joint efforts undertaken by donors, can hinder the response. In addition to, it will discuss the need to reaffirm the fundamental importance of the humanitarian principles and to ensure that counter-terrorism measures and sanctions do not weaken adherence to them. It will seek to identify ways to ensure that such measures are consistent with Member State obligations under International Humanitarian Law, ensuring people-centered solutions and strengthening effectiveness.