ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies the various policy debates in the humanitarian sphere and explores the main challenges of implementing existing policy in the midst of a complex emergency. In sum, the criticism is that relief becomes a tool of war that contributes to a protracted war-based economy and interferes with the politics and stability of a country and region. Defenders of emergency relief as an end in itself also present a compelling argument: that many of those in need of emergency assistance are trapped within a global economic system that will perpetuate emergency relief. Concerned global citizens and war victims do not see a dilemma between humanitarian assistance and human rights protection. Safe havens are preferable if external governments and their armed forces have a long-term commitment to the protection of the group in need of succor and protection. The most alarming trend in donor funding is the overwhelming underfunding of Africa-based humanitarian programs.
