The intensifi cation and multiplicity of protracted confl icts, the blurring of traditional distinctions between war zones and safe areas, together with increased diffi culties in distinguishing botween belligerents and civilian population have all served to worsen the fate of innocent victims and to complicate the work of those who try to assist them. Actors who claim space under the humanitarian banner are guided by varying principles of humanitarianism or employ difl erent interpretations of a small number of acknowledged humanitarian principles.