Humanitarian Assistance: An Opportunity Is Lost

Abstract

The literature is replete with inspiring stories of "successful" humanitarian missions (HA). The missions alleviate pain and sufferings, and if only in the short term, better the community they serve; but do these missions fully support the geographic combatant commander's (GCC) theater security cooperation plans (TSCP)? An objective analysis indicates the United States' humanitarian assistance programs lack strategic vision, effective interagency coordination, adequate funding, and responsiveness; and therefore, do not fully support the GCC's TSCP. This paper evaluates the strategic benefits and opportunities of HA. It also examines the development of the GCC's Humanitarian Civic Action program and the effectiveness of the Department of Defense-Department of State interagency relationship. Based upon the research presented, the author draws conclusions and provides specific recommendations to improve HA's linkage to and support of the GCC's TSCP.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 23, 2009
Accession Number
ADA513951

Entities

People

  • William P. Lachance

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Civic Action
  • Department Of Defense
  • Department Of State
  • Failed States
  • Governments
  • Health Services
  • Humanitarian Assistance
  • Interagency Coordination
  • Intergovernmental Organizations
  • Military Medicine
  • Military Operations
  • National Security
  • Organizational Structure
  • Unified Combatant Commands
  • United States Africa Command
  • United States European Command
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Military and Counterinsurgency Studies.