This Study seeks to advance, in both theory and practice, the delivery of humanitarian assistance. It focuses, in particular, on the responses of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and UN agencies working in Sri Lanka. The study focuses on 'capacity building' on the part of NGOs and UN agencies - to build institutional capacity among local organizations in Sri Lanka. The project assesses the existing resources and potential for institutional 'capacity building' in three areas: the prevention of violence against women and support for those affected; the provision of access to reproductive health facilities and contraceptives for women; and the promotion of income-generating options which serve to stabilize household economies. This project is funded by Oxfam, UK and is coordinated in collaboration with Professor Jennifer Hyndman, Department of Geography, Arizona State University, U. S. A