Mmegi

Consequences of humanitarian aid in war zones

Humanitarian action has evolved, even before Henry Dunant started the International Red Cross movement. In its early stages, humanitarian aid was provided to alleviate suffering and save lives, upholding the principles of humanitarian action, including humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence.

These principles were established so that humanitarian action would be separate from politics and could not be politicised. Over time, another approach emerged from Woodrow Wilson, who believed that humanitarian aid in disaster and conflict crises could not be short-term assistance alone.

In 1990, humanitarian organisations began to direct humanitarian action towards resolving the root causes of a crisis, bringing action into the process of transformation and politics (Barnett, 2005). This kind of action is expected to bring society into a state of positive peace, so that reforms are needed in each field to prevent similar crises from occurring by entering the realm of politics and development.

Editor's Comment
Diplomatic relations must be on equal footing

“Let us never negotiate out of fear.But let us never fear to negotiate”– John F. KennedySupport for healthcare, education, skills and infrastructure can improve lives. The reaffirmed commitment to the Mmopane–Block 8 road is welcome for the prospect of better transport links for surrounding communities.China has shown willingness to assist Botswana, and government deserves credit for securing these commitments. However, the success of our...

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