humanitarian action, acquis humanitaire, protection, empowerment, legal frameworks
There are close connections between humanitarian action and human security which arise, in part, from their common focus on the principles of humanity and human dignity. Indeed, the UN Trust Fund for Human Security has argued that a longer-term human security approach complements more immediate humanitarian efforts. Drawing on research elaborating the concept of an acquis humanitaire of laws, policies and practices relevant in humanitarian crises, this chapter explores the interconnections between human security and the legal frameworks for humanitarian action. After examining the twin components of humanitarian action, namely material assistance and protection of persons, the chapter argues that adopting a human security lens may be a useful way of operationalising a rights-based approach to humanitarian action, based on protection, empowerment, non-discrimination and accountability.