Dunantist

Dunantist is named after Jean Henri Dunant (1828–1910), who inspired the creation of the International Committee of the Red Cross.^[1] It refers to the group of humanitarian practitioners, who follow the traditional approach to humanitarism, which comprises four fundamental principles, namely:

1. Humanity – alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found

2. Neutrality – do not take sides in a conflict

3. Impartiality – aid should be based on needs alone, regardless of race, class, gender and sex

4. Independence – from benefactors and institutional donors

There are four types of humanitarian organization:

Dunantist – named after Henry Dunant, who inspired the creation of the International Committee of the Red Cross. These are independent, neutral organizations that attempt to work outside the influence of the state. Médecins Sans Frontières is an example of a Dunantist humanitarian organization.

Wilsonian – named after President Woodrow Wilson, who sought to integrate US foreign policy interests with NGO activities. Wilsonian organizations differ from Dunantist organizations in that they accept stronger state influence. Examples include the CARE International, the International Rescue Committee and Save the Children US.

Solidarist – these organizations reject impartiality, and their humanitarian aid programmes follow a clear political point of view. The Norwegian People's Aid organization is an example, just like International Relief and Development.

Commercial – these organizations are fully dependent on government funding as well as private enterprises such as Haliburton, Hechtel and private military companies. Their profit motive means they have little regard for humanitarian principles.

References

1. ^ "Jean Henri Dunant Bio". Nobel Prize laureates. http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/peace/laureates/1901/dunant-bio.html. Retrieved March 2, 2011. 

External links

• 1. Humanitarian challenges
• 2. Médecins_Sans_Frontières