UN-CMCoord Concept & Definition

UN-CMCoord is the essential dialogue and interaction between civilian and military actors in humanitarian emergencies that is necessary to protect and promote humanitarian principles, avoid competition, minimize inconsistency and, when appropriate, pursue common goals. Basic strategies range from cooperation to coexistence. Coordination is a shared responsibility facilitated by liaison and common training. 

The key coordination elements in natural disasters and complex emergencies are information sharing, task division, and planning. These key elements' scope and modus operandi will change depending on the context and interlocutors. The UN-CMCoord function encompasses, but is not exclusive to, five CMCoord tasks distinct from typical security or logistics work.

There are other civil-military related concepts within the humanitarian, development, and peace and security communities, such as Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC), Civil-Military Cooperation and Coordination (CMCO (EU)), Civil-Military Interaction (CMI (NATO)), Civil-Military Operations (CMO), or Civil Affairs (CA).

The United Nations Department of Peace Operations (DPO) defines UN-CIMIC as a military staff function that facilitates the interface between military and civilian components, including humanitarian and development actors. UN-CIMIC supports the mission, particularly military branches whose primary role is providing a secure and stable environment.