Drivers and Inhibitors of Change in the Humanitarian System: A Political Economy Analysis of Reform Efforts Relating to Cash, Accountability to Affected Populations and Protection

Why has it been so difficult to reform the humanitarian system? Simply put, good intentions alone are not enough. This study thinks through three long-standing reform proposals to their respective ends. The analysis shows where the reforms conflict with the self-interests of humanitarian organisations and donors. It recommends to: invest in stronger assessment and analysis capacities of operational organisations; support the consolidation of the humanitarian actor landscape; rely more on diplomatic representations to negotiate with host governments; and, give priority to supporting the cash reform.