Introduction

The number of horrifying attacks on representatives of the United Nations (UN), relief agencies, the media, non-governmental and other organizations while on missions to alleviate and report human suffering throughout the world has escalated alarmingly. In the past, the blue UN letters and the red cross provided protection; increasingly, they designate targets. International protectors and providers and their locally recruited colleagues have been taken hostage, tortured, and even killed. They and their families have physically and psychologically paid a very high price, both immediate and long-term, for their efforts on behalf of others. Violations of human rights abound. Tens of millions of refugees and internally displaced persons have cried out for help from governments and international and non-governmental organizations.