Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a human right and, like all other human rights, applies to refugees, internally displaced persons, and others living in humanitarian settings. To realize this right, affected populations must have access to comprehensive SRH information and services so they are free to make informed choices about their health and well-being.

The provision of comprehensive and high-quality SRH services requires a multisectoral integrated approach. Personnel from sectors such as protection, health, nutrition, education, and community service all have an important role in planning and delivering SRH services. Needs are best met through involving affected communities in every phase of action: from assessing needs to designing programs, from launching and maintaining programs to evaluating their impact.

The Inter-Agency Field Manual on Reproductive Health in Humanitarian Settings (IAFM) is the result of a collaborative and consultative process engaging hundreds of representatives from United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations that make up the Inter-Agency Working Group on Reproductive Health in Crises (IAWG). Based on guidelines issued by normative bodies, particularly those of the World Health Organization, the 2018 IAFM incorporates specific evidence from, or examples about, the application and adaptation of global SRH or human rights

standards in humanitarian settings. The 2018 IAFM reflects the wide application of the manual’s principles and technical content beyond refugee situations, extending its use into diverse crises, including conflict zones and natural disasters. The IAFM continues to be the authoritative source for SRH in crises; the Sphere Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response incorporates the Minimum Initial Service Package for SRH - Chapter 3 in the 2018 IAFM - as a minimum standard of care in humanitarian response.