![]() ![]() While today humanitarian aid is often thought of as response to natural and manmade disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes and typhoons, it was once almost exclusively related to military conflict. The empires of Greece and Rome were among the first to record principles that outlined acceptable conduct in wartime likewise in “The Art of War” Chinese general Sun Tzu alludes to appropriate conduct during wartime. In more modern times the various Geneva conventions represent a modern consensus on appropriate treatment of civilians, wounded soldiers and prisoners during conflict.ĭuring the Black Death Pandemic of the Middle Ages, public health boards were created to handle isolation, quarantine and disposal of bodies and represent the very beginnings of what might be called disaster medicine. Modern technologic advances in weaponry, transportation and communication in the late 1800s enabled not only destruction of human life and property on a never before seen scale but also the communication of those events to the world at large. This communication and transportation infrastructure also allowed the potential for timely organization and provision of aid for the first time in history. Multiple religious beliefs such as the concept of Christian charity prevalent in the West and the Islamic tradition of Zakat are reflected, as are ethical concepts of appropriate wartime conduct. Issues surrounding treatment of soldiers and civilians during conflict that has had perhaps the greatest impact on the organization of humanitarian aid into the systems we see today the horrors of war have led to many of the principles relevant to humanitarian aid. ![]() The underpinning philosophies contributing to humanitarian action are diverse. Although a system of international aid first originated after World War I with the Treaty of Versallies, a broadly accepted definition and key principles of humanitarian aid have only become part of conventional wisdom since the 1990s. Yet the modern concept and system of humanitarian aid as we know it the impartial, independent and neutral provision of aid to those in immediate danger has only existed since the mid part of the 20th century. By analyzing foundational documents on the concept of human rights, major humanitarian events that depict what is on the line for future interventions, and international action that highlight effective cooperation, this text can serve as a framework for students interested in continuing research in this field.īroadly defined, the act of providing material assistance to people in need has existed throughout human history, often in the form of food or material aid provided during famine, drought or natural disaster. ![]() ![]() This academic article uses a historical lens to evaluate humanitarian action today. ![]()
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