Topic 2: The global context of humanitarian relief
Overview
This Topic provides a solid framework for the global context of humanitarian relief. In this Topic you are required to read or scan through quite a number of reports and there is a lot of historical background to grasp. It will require a concerted effort on your part to assimilate this information. In subsequent Topics the focus shifts to the more practical issues of humanitarian issues.
In this Topic you will analyse global losses from disasters over the past decade, as well as the complexities associated with losses from climate change, violence and conflict. The historical development of complex emergencies will be analysed, and in particular the large peace-keeping operations which were attempted after the end of the Cold War (1989/91). The increasing role of military involvement in humanitarian operations is discussed, and with this, the often-perceived loss of ‘humanitarian space’. The role played by militant Islam is analysed, particularly after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York, and subsequent invasions by Western forces of both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this Topic, students should be familiar with the:
- historical development of complex emergencies and peace-keeping operations
- increased role of military in humanitarianism and complex emergencies
- rise of Islamic Fundamentalism