Humanitarian Extractivism: The Digital Transformation of Aid

This book investigates the digital transformation of aid as a form of humanitarian extractivism, focusing on how practices of data extraction shift power towards states, the private sector, and humanitarians. It explores new humanitarian spaces and practices such as the humanitarian drone airspace, wearable innovation challenges, and ethics in global disaster innovation labs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

The book delves into the intricate dynamics of the digital transformation of aid, shedding light on the shifting power dynamics that underpin this transformative process. It examines how practices of data extraction, driven by the pursuit of efficiency and effectiveness, inadvertently empower states, the private sector, and humanitarians alike. This shift in power creates a complex web of risks and vulnerabilities, particularly for vulnerable individuals and communities.

At the heart of the digital transformation of aid lies the concept of the digital body, where digital identities become essential for accessing aid and protection. The proliferation of enormous databases, housing vast amounts of humanitarian data, further exacerbates the centralization of vulnerability. Cyber-attacks, human error, and technological problems pose significant risks to humanitarians, while also granting them the potential to inadvertently endanger the populations they seek to assist.

To navigate these complex challenges, the book explores innovative humanitarian spaces and practices. It examines the emergence of humanitarian drone airspace, as well as the ethical dilemmas and technological advancements that shape wearable innovation in global disaster response. Moreover, it delves into the ethics of global disaster innovation labs, where researchers and practitioners work together to develop cutting-edge solutions to humanitarian crises.

Through its comprehensive analysis, the book offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between technology, power, and humanitarianism. It highlights the need for a more nuanced and responsible approach to the digital transformation of aid, one that prioritizes the protection and empowerment of vulnerable individuals and communities. By exploring new humanitarian spaces and practices, the book contributes to the ongoing dialogue on the future of humanitarianism in the digital age.

Weight: 270g
Dimension: 157 x 234 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526173355