ABSTRACT

Wars and natural disasters--from the Balkans to the Sudan, and from Afghanistan to Central Africa--have increasingly placed humanitarian workers in the crossfire. Kevin M. Cahill has assembled an international team of renowned experts to offer a much-needed assessment of the moral, legal and political dilemmas and consequences of humanitarian assistance. Focusing on health issues, A Framework for Survival takes an unflinching look at the reality facing the nations and people involved, from refugees to relief organizations. In contrast to conventional military, economic and geopolitical strategies, it suggests rational and effective solutions and foreign policy recommendations. With the collapse of many government infrastructures since the end of the Cold War, the success or failure of humanitarian efforts may, to a large extent, define the world's chances for survival.

part |10 pages

Introduction

part I|176 pages

Reality

chapter 1|13 pages

The Public-Health Consequences of Inaction

Lessons Learned in Responding to Sudden Population Displacements

chapter 2|5 pages

Clinical Aspects of Famine

chapter 3|18 pages

When the System Doesn't Work

Somalia 1992

chapter 4|11 pages

Refugeewomen

Overcoming the Odds

chapter 5|36 pages

Mediating for Children

Child Protection in Armed Conflicts

chapter 6|13 pages

The American Medical Establishment

An Absent Partner

chapter 9|17 pages

The Economics of Neglect

chapter 10|12 pages

Reflections from the Donor

Obligations and Responsibilities of All Nations

part II|84 pages

Players

chapter 12|11 pages

The Challenges of Humanitarian Action

Protecting People and Supporting Peace

chapter 13|16 pages

The Plight of Refugees

Issues and Problems Affecting Their Humanitarian Needs

chapter 14|10 pages

Relief and Reality

chapter 17|14 pages

Bangladesh

From Cyclones to Sustainable Development

part III|58 pages

Solutions and Future Options

chapter 19|19 pages

Underwriting Humanitarian Assistance

Mobilizing Resources for Effective Action

chapter 20|19 pages

Learning the Lessons of Coordination