What is “consistency” in the practice of human protection, and why is it important? International responses to complex humanitarian emergencies that put civilians at risk continue to be characterised by inconsistency and selectivity. Some crises elicit robust international responses, whereas others do not. Yet selectivity and inconsistency may undermine the legitimacy of protection practice, and impede the successful consolidation of protection norms.

This workshop explores the meaning of consistency in theory and practice, the complexity of mapping and measuring consistency, the roles and responsibilities of human protection actors including states and the UN, as well as recent trends and protection gaps.