Humanitarianisms

Question 1

What shapes non-DAC donors’ approach to humanitarian aid, according to Harmer & Cotterell (2005)?

Answer 1

Historical legacies, religion (e.g. Islamic solidarity), security interests, and economic goals shape non-DAC aid strategies. (Harmer & Cotterell, 2005)

Question 2

What challenges do non-DAC donors pose to the traditional aid system?

Answer 2

They challenge Western norms of neutrality and conditionality, promote bilateralism, and introduce competing interpretations of humanitarianism in a multipolar aid system. (Harmer & Cotterell, 2005)

Question 3

How does Stockton (1998) defend traditional humanitarian principles?

Answer 3

He defends neutrality, impartiality, humanity, and independence by rejecting four critiques (e.g. ‘undeserving victims’, dependency myths, NGO incompetence). (Stockton, 1998)

Question 4

Why does Stockton argue the humanitarian system must be protected despite flaws?

Answer 4

Its moral legitimacy is vital to global justice; erosion of principles undermines the system’s ability to respond to violence. (Stockton, 1998)

Question 5

What is the ‘New Wars’ thesis proposed by Kaldor (2001)?

Answer 5

Modern wars are driven by identity politics, criminality, and state failure; they blur lines between war/crime and target civilians. (Kaldor, 2001)

Question 6

How does Kaldor propose reimagining humanitarian intervention?

Answer 6

Shift from military humanitarianism to ‘human security’—long-term, multilateral, civilian-focused, and grounded in participation and legality. (Kaldor, 2001)

Question 7

What major problem do Barber & Bowden identify in modern humanitarianism?

Answer 7

The core principles are often impractical or bypassed due to politicisation, weak accountability, and ethical neglect. (Barber & Bowden, 2023)

Question 8

What reforms do Barber & Bowden recommend?

Answer 8

Strengthen accountability under IHL, train staff in moral reasoning (e.g. LEGS), consult affected populations, and audit principle adherence. (Barber & Bowden, 2023)

Question 9

What were key funding trends and gaps highlighted in 2023?

Answer 9

Despite a surge in private donations (esp. for Ukraine), funding fell short; localisation and climate finance remained minimal. (OCHA, 2023)

Question 10

What did the 2024 update reveal about ongoing humanitarian challenges?

Answer 10

Millions remain at risk due to underfunding, conflict, and infrastructure collapse; local actors played key roles, but global solidarity is urgently needed. (OCHA, 2024) Aid should not be considered charity but a global investment