Setting the scene: the new conflict environment and contemporary challenges for interventionists

This article examines the characteristics of contemporary conflict and humanitarian environments and looks at the reasons that underpin their evolution. It studies the role of globalization, international economies, weapons proliferation, warlords, individual security guarantees and urbanization. The role of the international community is discussed and the main responsibilities and actors are defined. Future challenges for multinational military forces are examined and an overview given of the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), United Nations (UN) agencies, bilateral and multilateral donors, commercial companies and host governments. Lastly, recommendations are given on how the international community can close existing gaps that impede operational effectiveness, whilst still providing integrated responses to global needs.