Military-humanitarian integration: The promise and the peril

Abstract:

Finland is currently drafting a comprehensive national crisis management strategy (CNCM). This briefing paper puts this exercise in conversation with the increase in violence directed at aid workers in crisis situations, with special reference to Afghanistan. On a policy level, Finnish decision makers should take into consideration the changing security environment and the mosaic of actors involved in crisis management.

It is argued that increased integration and coordination has complicated aid agencies’ attempts to maintain neutrality in the field. Neutrality, together with impartiality and independence, functions to create a 'humanitarian space' in conflict zones. It is precisely this space that is most at risk when humanitarian actors are coupled with military and state apparatuses.

The aim of integration and coordination is to improve the responsiveness, effectiveness, and efficiency of humanitarian relief and crisis response. It involves coordination and cooperation in the planning and use of military and civil defense assets in humanitarian operations.