ABSTRACT
One form of novel diplomatic activity that has received considerable attention in recent times is humanitarian diplomacy. This chapter aims to discuss different forms of humanitarian diplomacy, to identify some of the key agents and actors in these kinds of diplomacy, and to highlight a number of the major challenges that can arise in the relationship between humanitarianism and diplomacy. Embedded within the idea of humanitarianism is the idea of humanity, and embedded within this is the idea of what it means to be human. Diplomatic activity works when it is nested within a framework of norms and understandings that prescribe how actors should behave, and ensure that they honour their commitments. Humanitarian diplomacy involves a diverse range of actors. Despite notable recent movements away from ‘club’ models of diplomacy in favour of models that put more emphasis on networks, states remain actors of profound importance.
