Center for Civilians in Conflict

Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC) is an international nonprofit and nongovernmental organization founded in 2003 by Marla Ruzicka. It works to improve protection for civilians in conflict zones through advocacy, advising, research and direct engagement with armed actors and institutions, at the nexus of the human rights, humanitarian and security fields. Its stated aim is a world in which no civilian is harmed in conflict.

The organization combines principled advocacy with practical solutions, positioning itself as both advocate and advisor, with an emphasis on the accountability of warring parties for civilian protection. Its work includes the development of practical tools and policies to prevent and respond to civilian harm, support for the promotion and development of national-level Protection of Civilians policies, and programmes that facilitate engagement between conflict-affected communities and security forces.

CIVIC has a global presence, with offices around the world, and has been active in Ukraine since 2017. It operates across the human rights, humanitarian aid, security and conflict, and civilian protection in armed conflict verticals.