The Politics and Everyday Practice of International Humanitarianism

This book explores the work of the largest international humanitarian agencies, arguing that politics play a fundamental role in determining humanitarian needs, practices, and outcomes. It covers significant ground temporally, geographically, and thematically, with chapter-length case studies of eleven humanitarian emergencies and a discussion of key concepts and trends in international humanitarianism. It is an invaluable reference for students and scholars of international humanitarianism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 496 pages
Publication date: 04 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate world of international humanitarian agencies, exploring their role in responding to humanitarian emergencies and addressing global challenges. Through a combination of detailed case studies and thematic chapters, it offers a comprehensive analysis of the work of these organizations.

The central argument of the book is that politics play a fundamental role in determining humanitarian needs, practices, and outcomes. It highlights the many challenges and dilemmas faced by humanitarian agencies in the contemporary world, covering significant ground in terms of time, geography, and themes.

The book is divided into four sections, providing a comprehensive survey of contemporary international humanitarianism. The first section presents chapter-length case studies of the international responses to eleven humanitarian emergencies from the 1960s to the present day across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Europe. These case studies provide valuable insights into the complexities of humanitarian response and the challenges faced by aid agencies.

The second section explains key concepts and trends in international humanitarianism, such as the principles of humanity, impartiality, and independence, as well as the evolution of humanitarian aid policies and practices. It also explores the role of international humanitarian agencies in promoting human rights, addressing gender equality, and promoting sustainable development.

The third section discusses how the work of international humanitarian agencies interacts with a range of other actors, including media, celebrities, donors, states, civil society, military forces, and armed groups. It explores the complex dynamics and power relations that shape humanitarian response and outcomes, highlighting the importance of collaboration and coordination among these actors.

The fourth section focuses on the operations and activities undertaken by aid agencies on a daily basis. It provides an in-depth look at the logistics, funding, and personnel involved in humanitarian response, as well as the challenges of delivering aid in complex and conflict-ridden environments.

The Politics and Everyday Practice of International Humanitarianism is an ideal resource for students of international humanitarianism, offering a high-level introduction to the field. It also serves as an invaluable point of reference for more established scholars, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the work of international humanitarian agencies.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of international humanitarianism, providing a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the work of these organizations and their role in addressing global challenges. Its central argument that politics play a fundamental role in determining humanitarian needs, practices, and outcomes is timely and relevant, and its comprehensive coverage of contemporary international humanitarianism makes it an essential resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike

Weight: 758g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198840701