Paper details
| Paper authors | Oscar A. Gomez |
| In panel on | Localising Research on Humanitarian Concepts |
| Paper presenter(s) will be presenting |
In-Person / |
Abstract
In 2011, Japan was the largest recipient of humanitarian assistance, over major crisis going on in Somalia, Pakistan and Libya. Such change of logic on the way assistance flows is a symptom of major reconfigurations in dealing with humanitarian crises worldwide, especially in Asia. Focusing on the countries of the ASEAN+3 region, the paper provides an overview of regional perceptions and developments dealing with major crises, based on multiple sources comprising an original qualitative survey, semi-structured interviews and content analysis of review of primary data. The research finds that State consolidation has implied that responsibility is the principle through which response to emergencies is judged. Combined with a positive view of paternalist governments, crises are first and mostly seen as part of State’s protective function. Actors of the region recognize the importance of helping those in need beyond borders and are willing to contribute; still, reciprocity is of great importance in this practice, underlying the massive support to Japan in 2011. Moreover, partial reasons for action—i.e., protecting compatriots abroad—are also a crucial motivation, as well as international reputation. Finally, the development of new regional institutions suggests contestation of the established humanitarian practices could be consolidating in the region.
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