Humanitarian Space in Insecure Environments: A Shifting Paradigm.

Abstract

A paradigm shift is taking place in the world of humanitarians. It is evident in the numerous discussions taking place over a very basic concept of humanitarian space. As defined by the European Commission's Directorate for Humanitarian Aid, "humanitarian space" means "the access and freedom for humanitarian organizations to assess and meet humanitarian needs." International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) are examples of the many humanitarian organizations that operate in conflict zones today. Humanitarian actors are guided by a common set of principles. * Humanity: The principle of humanity requires the preservation of the humanitarian nature of operations --i.e., to protect life and ease suffering. * Independence: The principle of independence implies independence from political as well as military actors. * Impartiality: Impartiality in principle requires that humanitarian action respond according to need, and without discrimination. * Neutrality: The principle of neutrality requires outside actors to avoid giving military or political advantage to any side over another.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 2005
Accession Number
ADA521529

Entities

People

  • Karen Guttieri

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Boundaries
  • Civil War
  • Civilian Population
  • Department Of Defense
  • Employment
  • Environment
  • Force Protection
  • Governments
  • Humanitarian Assistance
  • Humanities
  • Information Exchange
  • International Security
  • Personnel Management
  • Physical Security
  • Security
  • Security Personnel
  • United Nations

Readers

  • Military and Counterinsurgency Studies.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space