Since its inception, UNICEF has provided life-saving assistance and assured protection for children in both natural and man-made emergencies, guided by the principle that children in crises have the same needs and rights as children in stable situations. This new version of the Emergency Field Handbook has been developed, after consultation, as a practical tool for UNICEF field staff to meet the needs of children and women affected by disasters. It is structured around UNICEF's Core Commitments for Children in Emergencies, and covers programme areas and operational functions. It includes a CD-ROM which contains a complete electronic version of the Handbook, as well as links to background and reference documents.