Examine the definition of this principle given by two major
humanitarian organizations.
The definition by the ICRC says, the Red Cross is independent.
The National Societies,
while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject
to the laws of their respective countries, Must always maintain their autonomy so
that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with Red Cross principles.
The definition by OCHA says, humanitarian action must be autonomous from
the political, economic, military or other objectives That any
actor may hold with regard to areas where humanitarian action is being implemented.
Now ask yourself, what are the common elements of two, these two definitions?
And then, what is the main characteristic of this principle?
Why do you think this principle can have different meanings?
Independence implies freedom in the choices and modes of intervention,
acting only under the authority of the organisation's governing body and
in line with the organisation's purpose.
Humanitarian agency must thus formulate and implement their policies
in complete independence from any political, economic or religious power.
The decision to develop a humanitarian project, where and how to do it, is taken
solely by the humanitarian organization and should only be based on needs.
Independence can, for example, mean only accepting funds from parties that are not
directly or indirectly party to the conflict.
This type of financial independence will allow the actor to be
truly impartial and neutral.
It is important that actors involved in humanitarian response not only
proclaim their respect of these principles, but also that this respect
is clearly perceived by all observers and other actors.
Experience shows that the respect of these principles are among the minimal
conditions to put in practice to create trust with affected populations and
belligerents in a specific context.
It is important that these principles are respected in a coherent manner in
all contexts of intervention.
In this connected world,
what is practiced in one place will be known in another context.