Humanitarianism & Philanthropy
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Licence: U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Philip A. McDaniel - This image was released by the United States Navy with the ID 050102-N-9593M-040 (next). This tag does not indicate the copyright status of the attached work.
| Giver: | Registered Organization |
|---|---|
| Receiver: | Registered Organization |
| Gift: | - |
| Approach: | Philanthropy |
| Issues: | 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities |
| Included in: | Humanitarianism & Philanthropy |
Humanitarianism and philanthropy, intertwined concepts centered on the moral imperative to improve human welfare and alleviate suffering, have their roots in the Enlightenment era's emphasis on universal rights and dignity. This foundation has encouraged a spirit of global responsibility, leading to increased international aid, charitable giving, and volunteering. The modern approach to humanitarianism and philanthropy prioritizes sustainable impact and long-term solutions over temporary relief, recognizing the limitations of short-term aid, as highlighted by historical events like the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. This disaster underscored the need for interventions by global entities, including corporations with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and international nonprofits, which have demonstrated their capacity to provide significant support in times of crisis.
International philanthropic organizations and corporations have played pivotal roles in disaster response, showcasing the ability to complement government efforts, especially where local infrastructures are insufficient. These entities have been crucial in rebuilding communities, emphasizing the importance of sustainable, long-term recovery plans.
However, the practice of humanitarianism is subject to critical scrutiny over issues such as paternalism, potential neocolonial tendencies, and the implications of humanitarian actions for global power dynamics. The evolving landscape of global giving underscores the necessity for adaptive approaches that address these complexities and the changing nature of global challenges.
In the face of globalization and government deregulation, corporate philanthropy has emerged as a significant force in filling the "global governance vacuum," particularly evident in responses to disasters like the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. This scenario has highlighted the limits of local governments and nonprofits, presenting an opportunity to examine the interplay between CSR, global business, and humanitarian efforts.
The collaborative efforts between governments, non-profits, and corporations are essential for effective disaster response and community rebuilding. This collaboration can enhance service delivery and governance, underscoring the dynamic and nuanced relationship between humanitarianism and philanthropy in addressing global challenges. The ongoing commitment to these principles is vital for fostering generosity and achieving meaningful, long-term solutions in disaster-affected communities, ensuring that the spirit of helping continues to evolve and respond effectively to the needs of the global community.
Contributor: Maha Tazi
| Source type | Full citation | Link (DOI or URL) |
|---|---|---|
| Publication |
Porter, Michael E.; Kramer, Mark R. “The Competitive Advantage of Corporate Philanthropy”. Harvard Business Review, 2002. |
https://bit.ly/3VonVZy |
| Book |
Mithani, Murad A. Liability of Foreignness, Natural Disasters, and Corporate Philanthropy. JIBS Special Collections book series, 2022. |
https://bit.ly/3GiKZov |
| Publication |
Gannon, James. International Philanthropy and Disasters in Developed Countries: The US Response to Japan’s 3.11 Disaster. Japan Center for International Exchange, 2014. |
https://bit.ly/3jnM5pP |
| Publication |
OECD. “Private Philanthropy for Development”. The Development Dimension, 2018 |
https://bit.ly/3FUJfQF |
