ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the colleagues and the Transylvanian mountains of Romania. Fifteen University of Denver graduate students worked in concert with 30 Romanian Land Forces Academy cadets in the conduct of a joint humanitarian training exercise intended to benefit the skill development of both parties. The Romanian initiative incorporated elements of what they refer to as pragmatic humanitarianism. Tied to an emerging theory of obligation, which the author has elaborated elsewhere, this notion of humanitarianism features hands-on training with at-risk populations. A critical realism also is suggested. The diverse voices of beneficiaries, military personnel, civilian/NGO personnel, and government officials must be weighed equitably as outreach strategies are considered. Current courses offered through the University of Denver's masters program in humanitarian assistance build upon what was accomplished in Romania. Van Arsdale promotes a pragmatic humani-tarianism, that is, the notion that what one person does as part of a grassroots agency makes a difference.
