This briefing gives an overview of a rights-based approach to emergencies - what it means and how it works. The briefing is framed around two key concepts central to ActionAid's work: a) that providing relief in an emergency is not an end in itself. Any emergency work should protect and promote the human rights of those affected, and b) that emergency interventions should always be based on recognised legal and moral principles. Otherwise the intervention is in danger of doing more harm than good.