The ALNAP Global Study responds to a growing consensus that the consultation and participation of disaster-affected populations during the planning, monitoring and evaluation of humanitarian action, is critical to the accountability and performance of the humanitarian sector. \nThrough direct observation of current practice in five country case studies, the Global Study series seeks to reveal mechanisms by which the voice of affected populations can be enhanced, while remaining alert to the difficulties posed by emergencies. \nThis Practitioners' Handbook is intended as a manual for international humanitarian personnel, as well as staff working for national and local organisations, and is based on the empirical evidence of the five case studies. A revised edition called 'The Participation Handbook - Involving crisis affected people in humanitarian action' will be published in English, French and Spanish by Groupe URD in 2008.