ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the history of humanitarian media and global solidarity with those who suffer, and examines the role humanitarian communication must play in the twenty-first century. It draws out the tensions and contradictions inherent in the sometimes delicate relationships that exist between the press, the public, those who suffer, and aid organizations. Because of the dismantling of many of the once well-funded news units, sharing information is now standard procedure between journalists and aid agencies and humanitarian organizations. When aid agencies design their own messages, and serve as press liaisons and sources they help shape the media interpretation of events and the news frames. At times the mutually beneficial partnerships between reporters and aid workers, and news organizations and agencies, breaks down and shifts from a friendly to an adversarial role. This can happen with aid workers in the field.