The Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research (HPCR) at Harvard University is a research and policy center focusing on international humanitarian law and the protection of civilians in situations of armed conflict. The Program was established in 2000 as a collaborative effort between the Swiss Government, the United Nations and Harvard University. HPCR aims to provide legal and policy expertise in the development of cogent tools and methods to enhance the capabilities of professionals and agencies engaged in the implementation and monitoring of international humanitarian law.