3.4 Preparedness

Civil-military relations issues are best addressed at the CO level in the context of wider planning and management processes relating to CO strategy (for example, LRSP), emergency preparedness, conflict sensitivity, and staff safety and security. Given the role typically assumed by military forces in disaster response, civ-mil should figure in all CARE CO emergency preparedness plans (EPP), including in countries that are not currently conflict-affected. The scope for joint aid agency approaches to civil-military relations should also be explored in the course of preparing EPPs.

Managing civil-military relations should be considered at different levels of CARE, including:

• CO field staff considers the risks and responsibilities of interacting with armed actors. Relevant training (for example, negotiation skills) and clear management guidance on CO strategy and policy should be conducted
• Country Director and relevant geographic/programme managers should guide CO-level policy implementation
• Relevant CO support staff (for example, Conflict or Security Officers) are involved in analysis and monitoring of policy implementations
• CARE International Lead Members provide guidance and oversee CO management responsibilities
• Information is shared and coordinated for advocacy purposes with other CARE International Members.