(From Columbia University's Frontiers of Humanitarianism Lecture Series 4/2/08)
"This conference is meant to examine the limits of humanitarian action, and in particular how political paralysis after conflict perpetuates human suffering. Many violent crisis of the past have left a legacy of humanitarian needs that no longer make the headlines, and that defy a solution. Is humanitarianism no more than a fig leaf to mask political cowardice? Or has the time come for a political approach to humanitarian action, exploring new frontiers?"
The principles endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in the 2005 World Summit Outcome:
1. The primary responsibility to protect populations from human-made catastrophe lies within the state itself
2. When a state fails to meet that responsibility, either through incapacity or ill-will, then the responsibility to protect shifts to the international community
3. This responsibility must be exercised by diplomatic, legal, and other peaceful measures and, as a last resort, through military force
First, we need to cite the three imperatives of humanitarian actions, or at least initial imperatives: impartiality, neutrality, and independence. These imperatives are not always taken into account, and when they are taken into account, focus can shift as a result of the on-the-ground realities; however, they are always good to keep in mind when thinking in terms of humanitarian work and action. In addition, the fact that emergencies, by definition, are sudden, unpredictable, and short term; yet, many humanitarian actions have a long term component, which the media often looses a focus on after the initial event.
Broadly speaking, we need to question the issue of our obligation to others, and how to go about implementing this obligation through non-self-serving means; means that are geared towards maximum benefit in the field. However, this often strikes against the very model of organization that is set up to benefit those in need. How to synchronize the merits of organization and necessity of organizational blueprint, with idealism and reality on the ground. These multiple considerations must be taken into account to find a comfortable and productive matrix, which is results-focused, not inwardly-looking and organizationally self-perpetuating.
We also need to have a wholistic view of the situation at hand; compartmentalizing is not a valid strategy. We need to understand the outcomes and possible consequences of any actions, before actions are taken, and we need to understand and be willing to accept negative outcomes of altruistic goals and methods. Who is really being served? Are these actions self serving, or are the intended beneficiaries actually gaining a positive benefit? The truth belongs to the victims and survivors in these situations; the truth is in their voices; this is the voice that needs to be answered with action.
"Things are seldom what they seem; skim milk often masquerades as creme."
W.S. Gilbert, HMS Pinafore
"Deconstructing realities to service selfish needs..."
-Roy Williams
"Life at its best is a creative synthesis of opposites living together in fruitful harmony."
MLK
