Rethinking humanitarianism: reflections from northern Kenya

Abstract

Abstract ‘What is the future of humanitarian aid and development?’ is a question that many people are asking today. This article examines the limitations of both ‘classical humanitarianism’ and project-based ‘resilience humanitarianism’ approaches and compares these with ‘everyday humanitarianism’ where resilience is built from below. Based on four years of field research in northern Kenya, we highlight some of the problems with resilience projects in pastoral areas. We argue that alternatives that prioritise everyday local practices, institutions and local knowledge are more effective in building resilience against external shocks. By focusing on everyday humanitarianism and building resilience from below, an alternative humanitarian response approach is envisaged. The principles of community, connection, collectivity and care in turn suggest a path forward for rethinking humanitarianism in the context of major changes in aid funding patterns.