Care in a Time of Humanitarianism: Stories of Refuge, Aid, and Repair in the Global South

Forced migrants and refugees seek shelter and respite in countries of the Global South, where humanitarian spaces and practices of care are part of a project founded on hybrid forms of care that include local and vernacular practices. Care in a Time of Humanitarianism presents complex histories of forced migration and humanitarianism in an accessible way, applying a comparative approach to highlight the diverse cultural and religious traditions of care adopted across the Global South for the "distant others."

Format: Hardback
Length: 335 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2024
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Forced migrants and refugees often find shelter and respite in countries of the Global South, where humanitarian spaces and practices of care are integral to international humanitarianism. These spaces and practices are not mere extensions of international humanitarianism but rather part of a project that embraces hybrid forms of care that include local and vernacular practices. "Care in a Time of Humanitarianism" offers a comprehensive exploration of the complex histories of forced migration and humanitarianism, presenting them in an accessible manner. By employing a comparative approach, the book highlights the diverse cultural and religious traditions of care that are adopted across the Global South for the "distant others."

The Global South is a region characterized by a high concentration of forced migrants and refugees, who seek shelter and respite in various countries. These spaces and practices of care are not limited to international humanitarianism but rather form an integral part of a broader project that incorporates hybrid forms of care. Hybrid forms of care involve the integration of local and vernacular practices with international humanitarian principles and standards.

One of the key challenges faced by forced migrants and refugees is the lack of access to basic needs such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare. Humanitarian spaces and practices of care play a crucial role in addressing these needs and providing a sense of security and stability to those who have been displaced.

Humanitarian spaces and practices of care are diverse and can vary depending on the context and the specific needs of the individuals involved. In some cases, humanitarian spaces may be established in refugee camps or other temporary settlements, while in others, they may be located in urban areas or rural communities. These spaces may include shelters, clinics, schools, and other facilities that provide essential services to those in need.

One of the key principles of humanitarianism is the principle of non-discrimination. Humanitarian spaces and practices of care must be accessible to all individuals, regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. This principle is particularly important in the context of forced migration, where individuals may face discrimination and marginalization based on their identity.

Humanitarian spaces and practices of care also emphasize the importance of dignity and respect. Individuals who have been displaced often face a range of challenges, including physical and emotional trauma, and they need to be treated with dignity and respect. Humanitarian spaces and practices of care must provide a safe and supportive environment that allows individuals to heal and rebuild their lives.

In addition to providing basic needs, humanitarian spaces and practices of care also play a role in promoting social and economic development. For example, humanitarian spaces may provide training and employment opportunities to individuals who have been displaced, which can help them to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities.

However, humanitarian spaces and practices of care also face a range of challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of funding and resources. Humanitarian organizations often struggle to provide the necessary resources to meet the needs of those in need, and this can lead to a lack of access to essential services.

Another challenge is the political and social context in which humanitarian spaces and practices of care operate. Humanitarian spaces and practices of care can be vulnerable to political interference and manipulation, and this can undermine their effectiveness.

Despite these challenges, humanitarian spaces and practices of care continue to play a crucial role in addressing the needs of forced migrants and refugees. By providing a sense of security and stability, promoting social and economic development, and emphasizing dignity and respect, humanitarian spaces and practices of care can help to build a more just and equitable world.

In conclusion, forced migrants and refugees often find shelter and respite in countries of the Global South, where humanitarian spaces and practices of care are integral to international humanitarianism. These spaces and practices are not limited to international humanitarianism but rather form an integral part of a broader project that incorporates hybrid forms of care. By providing a sense of security and stability, promoting social and economic development, and emphasizing dignity and respect, humanitarian spaces and practices of care can help to build a more just and equitable world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781805394907