3.4 Case study: Different approaches for different contexts

In Zambia, CARE placed a protective ‘lens’ on a food distribution programme in an Angolan refugee camp to ensure that the types and methods of distribution did not increase risk to people’s security. Sometimes the types of food distributed require increased fuel and water for cooking. This can mean that people are required to go further to collect water and fuel, and be vulnerable to attack.

Depending on the situation, CARE might also take a more direct approach to protection concerns, using witnessing and monitoring principles to advocate for better protection for people caught up in conflict. In Darfur, CARE is playing a pivotal role in contributing to ending gender-based violence and promoting peacebuilding. This involves working with youth organisations to sensitise and encourage them to contribute to the enhancement of women’s rights and peace efforts in their communities.

In Timor Leste (2006), child-safe spaces were established in the CARE-managed IDP camps. This provided a protective environment for children in direct response to threats posed by the conflict. CARE also implements the Lafaek project in Timor Leste. The Lafaek magazine is published in the country’s national language, Tetum, and provides information about children’s rights, peacebuilding, health, civic education, natural sciences and the environment.