Humanitarianism, War, and Politics

Hoffman and Weiss do a masterful job of analyzing unfolding changes in bedrock principles that produce the shifting sands of politics seen in ideas, actions, and results... Humanitarianism, War, and Politics is absolutely essential reading for both academics and humanitarian practitioners -- Jan Egeland, Secretary-General, Norwegian Refugee Council, and former UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator
The early decades of the 21st century have witnessed a profound crisis in humanitarianism, marked not only by the shrinking space within which humanitarian actors now work, but also by declining funding and political support. In Humanitarianism, War and Politics, Hoffman and Weiss give us both an interpretive 'toolkit' and historically-informed analysis to explain why and how humanitarianism is under siege. They illuminate the various forms of power that underpin humanitarian action, and how the inescapably political process of allocating rights, relief and refuge has been affected by the changing nature of armed conflict. The book is essential reading for those seeking to understand the roots of humanitarianism's current malaise, as well as for those endeavoring to reinvigorate humanitarianism, and enhance its impact, in the years ahead. -- Jennifer Welsh, Professor and Chair in International Relations, European University Institute and former Special Adviser to the UN Secretary-General on the Responsibility to Protect
Humanitarianism has a complicated history. It is a project that refuses to be a bystander to a world that creates and accepts so much needless suffering. While its motives might be high-minded, the action itself is filled with moral compromises, failures, and human and political limits. This is a difficult story to tell, requiring not cynicism but sobriety along with elements of hope. Hoffman and Weiss's Humanitarianism, War, and Politics captures this history and its ambiguities. Highs and lows. Accomplishments and failures. And, ultimately, having to make tough and rotten choices. -- Michael Barnett, University Professor, George Washington University