A Historical Survey of Humanitarian Action

Humanitarian medical associations emerged in France in the 1970s, working first in the developing world and then within their own country. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and Médecins du Monde (Doctors of the World) have been active in the debate concerning the boundaries of international humanitarian law. Some of the many associations which now exist around the world have put the "right of interference" redefined by the United Nations as "the right of access to victims" (Resolution 43-141) into practice, while others strongly oppose it. This article, contributed by a witness to some of the most severe crises in recent history, from Biafra to Rwanda, provides a history of humanitarian action and examines the roles of states, churches, and nongovernmental organizations both with respect to their humanitarian missions, and in the interpretation of international humanitarian law. How can "interference" in the face of the unacceptable be reconciled with the concept of state sovereignty? How can genocide be prevented and ruthless dictators barred from disposing of their populations with impunity? This article suggests the current limits, and perhaps even a retreat in humanitarian thinking given the context of a new world order.