Guidance on the Use of Foreign Military and Civil Defence Assets (MCDA) to Support Humanitarian Operations in the Context of the Current Food Security Crisis in the Horn of Africa

The Horn of Africa is currently in the midst of a serious food security crisis. The United Nations
has declared a state of famine in the southern Bakool and Lower Shabelle regions of southern
Somalia. There is concern that famine could quickly spread in Somalia and may affect other areas
of the Horn if not addressed through rapid action. Many civilian humanitarian resources are being
mobilized, but it is necessary to plan for the possibility that certain civilian capabilities could
become exhausted. The present document is issued to guide considerations in requesting,
mobilizing and integrating foreign MCDA to support humanitarian operations.