The Population Council conducts robust, timely research in complex emergency settings around the world.

We partner with leading humanitarian organizations, bringing our implementation science and mixed methods research expertise to better understand issues in settings that are affected by a combination of both natural disaster and post-conflict crises.

Highlights

photo of a woman and two young children

This study evaluates the efficacy, sustainability, and cultural compatibility of an annual volunteer-led training program for community health workers in rural southeast Haiti. Conducted in partnership with the Haitian Ministry of Public Health and Population, the recommendations from the study strengthens the potential impact of community health workers in a complex emergency setting. Learn more about the Frontline Health project.

a woman and a man holding an infant wrapped in a blanket

This mixed method study assesses the successes and challenges of integrated social and behavior change programming, including its effectiveness on priority behaviors and cost-effectiveness in a climate-stressed setting. Evaluation activities improve the design and implementation of programs. Learn more about the Breakthrough RESEARCH project.

Many adolescent girls—the poorest girls in the poorest communities—already live in an “emergency.” Humanitarian crises only amplify the call on their coping and caring capacities, while exacerbating their vulnerabilities. The frequency and intensity of emergencies, including natural disasters, conflicts, and infectious disease outbreaks such as Ebola, are growing. These emergencies threaten entire communities and whole countries, often with global implications. Many become virtually permanent. The Population Council is a founding member in the Girls in Emergencies Collaborative, which works with girls immediately after natural event disasters or in protracted conflict settings. The collective published a Statement and Action Agenda, outlining efforts to serve the needs of adolescent girls in emergencies.