This discussion paper examines the collapse of key humanitarian access capacities in 2025 and outlines the shifts needed to sustain principled operations in increasingly fragmented and politicised conflict environments. It argues for a rebalanced, locally led and internationally enabled approach to access, and offers practical recommendations for donors, UN actors, and frontline organisations.

Millions around the globe are affected by the actions of non-state armed groups. Like states, NSAGs are bound by IHL but have no voice in shaping it. This Brief proposes a strategic model aimed at the progressive inclusion of NSAGs in humanitarian norm development processes.