Introduction

This chapter introduces the theme of authoritarian practices and humanitarian negotiations, the subject of this edited volume. The argument is made that rather than speaking about authoritarian regimes, it is best to utilise the authoritarian practices conceptual framework as defined by Glasius. When international humanitarian non-governmental organisations think about authoritarianism, what matters is the practice of civic space limitation rather than the nature of the regime. After a review of authoritarianism in the 21st century, the authoritarian practices framework is related to the practice of humanitarian negotiations. Finally, the logic and chapters of the book are outlined.