Ethics & International Affairs Volume 11 (1997): The Politics of Rescue: NGOs and the Humanitarian Impulse: Some Have It Right [Abstract]

Dec 4, 1997

In a response to Pasic and Weiss, Natsios supports the authors' critique of the unintended political consequences of relief interventions but takes issue with their portrayal of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Natsios asserts that the authors misrepresent the doctrine of the ICRC in associating it with a mission of "restorative" rescue, one that is purely custodial in nature and blind to political problems. While the ICRC does support political reform, it maintains that relief should not be contingent upon or advance reform efforts. In conclusion, Natsios argues for case-by-case decisions on the objectives of each intervention, based on an approach that falls in between restorative rescue and revolutionary intervention in Pasic and Weiss' framework.

To read or purchase the full text of this article, click here.

You may also like

Uehiro-Carnegie Delegation at the Tokyo Skytree: CREDIT: Brian Mateo.

OCT 2, 2026 • Article

Second Delegation of the Uehiro-Carnegie for Future Generations Study Tour Visits Japan

Delegates from the September 2026 study tour reflect on their visits to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, and how the trip informed their views on ethical leadership.

OCT 1, 2026 • Podcast

Cooperation as a Source of Power

Velislava Petrova-Chamova, Bulgaria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, discusses why values and interests aren't opposing forces and how pragmatic diplomacy can turn principles into action.

Stethoscope. CREDIT: Duskcraft/Adobe.stock.com.

SEP 30, 2026 • Report

Redefining the Frontline: AI, Ethical Healthcare, and Non-State Power

This report from the second CEF cohort discusses new ethical frameworks for healthcare as AI transitions to general-purpose infrastructure. How should ethical considerations shift?

Not translated

This content has not yet been translated into your language. You can request a translation by clicking the button below.

Request Translation