Navigating violence: learning from civilian experiences and strengthening humanitarian action in contested territories

the ICRC published the report titled, "Navigating violence: learning from civilian experiences and strengthening humanitarian action in contested territories".The report can be downloaded here.As of July 2025, the International Committee of the Red Cross estimated that 204 million people were living in areas controlled or contested by armed groups.This represents an increase of 30 million since 2021.Many of them must navigate competing rules imposed by different armed actors, never knowing which allegiance might keep them safe or put them at risk.Most find themselves caught between violence and marginalization, with little to no access to essential services.Meaningful humanitarian support is often limited by the challenges of operating