Breaking Barriers: A Case Sudy of UNITAF and NGO Cooperation During Operation Restore Hope, 1992-1993
Abstract
A case study focusing on Unified Task Force's (UNITAF) operation in Somalia offers important insights into the professional relationship between Nongovernmental Organizations (NGO) and the Department of Defense (DoD). This study offers "lessons learned" that demonstrate how the two organizations combined their knowledge and capabilities to achieve success in Somalia. In 1992, at the time of US and UN intervention, Somalia factions were at war with each other. Somalia was virtually at war with itself. Moved to action by modern media , the US ordered the DoD to establish a secure environment in Somalia so that the relief effort could continue. History generally views UNITAF's operation in support of Operation Restore Hope as a humanitarian success. This thesis will demonstrate that the DoD and NGOs overcame multiple cultural barriers and leveraged each other's capabilities to have a profound impact on the humanitarian crisis in Somalia. By overcoming barriers and working together during Operation Restore Hope in 1992- 1993, NGOs and the DoD saved the lives of tens of thousands of Somalis suffering from war, famine, and disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 04, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA601162
Entities
People
- Geoffrey T. Gorsuch
Organizations
- Marine Corps University