Description
Book SynopsisThe book traces the history of international humanitarianism from the anti-slavery movement to the end of the cold war. It is based on an extensive survey of the international literature and is retold in an original narrative that relies on a close examination of the sources. The reconstruction of humanitarianism’s long history unfolds around some crucial moments and events: the colonial expansion of European countries, the two world wars and their aftermaths, the emergence of a new postcolonial order.
In terms of its contents, narrative style, interpretative approach the book is aimed at a large and diverse public including: scholars who are studying and teaching humanitarianism; students who need to learn about humanitarianism as part of their training or research; operators and volunteers who are engaged in the field; non-specialist readers who are interested in the topic because of its relevance to current events.
Table of ContentsPreface to the English edition
Introduction
Part I: Archaeology of international humanitarianism
1 Saving humanity, abolishing slavery
2 Colonial humanitarianism
Part II: Humanitarianism in wartime
3 La guerre et la charité
4 ‘Chaotic years of peace'
5 Aftermath of the Second World War: humanitarianism at a crossroads?
Part III: From Europe to the Third World
6 Fighting poverty and hunger
7 Humanitarian emergencies
Epilogue: a ‘new humanitarianism’?
Bibliography
Index
