In this collection Alex de Waal focuses on famine as a tool for violating human rights, while Francisco Alvarez Solis and Pauline Martin, writing about El Salvador, show how civilian organisations mobilised for peace in the midst of war. Lucy Bonnerjea addresses the needs of children who become separated from their families, and Hans Buwalda describes work in the Philippines that helps children come to terms with their suffering. Derek Summerfield offers guidance on policy and practise to NGO's involved in conflict-related emergencies.