Challenging Choices: Protection and livelihoods in Darfur

A review for the Danish Refugee Council During conflict, the threats that people face to their protection and their
livelihoods are frequently interrelated. Violence against civilians,
lack of freedom of movement and denial of land and property rights all
have major implications for people's livelihoods. The disruption of
basic services, limited access to employment, markets and farms, and
loss of productive capacities are common characteristics of war. This latest Humanitarian Policy Group working paper explores the linkages between protection and livelihoods for rural
populations in West Darfur . Undertaken as part of a programme review
for the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), the study illustrates the
difficult choices conflict-affected people face in balancing risks to
their lives and to their livelihoods. The research shows how the
availability of assistance in rural areas has played a part in
providing communities in the Zalingei area of Darfur with greater
options for subsistence and safety. It concludes by highlighting the
potential for more effective action to link livelihoods and protection. Click here to download the full report. This work contributes to a broader HPG
research programme on protection and livelihoods. A background working
paper reviewing agency practice can be found here.