Ethical dilemmas and humanitarian relief

Theoretically, there are three types of ethical dilemmas. The first involves choices between options with conflicting merits and costs. This type of dilemma can be addressed through professional training. The second form is centered on moral subjectivity reflecting such dilemmas as how to act when values of intended beneficiaries clash with those of humanitarian institutions. Such conflicts can be addressed through mechanisms of participation and empowerment.

The third dilemma type is where moral conflicts are perceived within a hierarchy of moral obligations. Humanitarian agencies may highlight the sanctity of life as the ultimate value superseding military and political interests, which often serve as excuses for inaction. Humanitarian action is generally based on international legal conventions and instruments which seek to guarantee, for example, protection from violence and robbery, the rights to stay, move or return to one’s home, and the right to remain within a state or cross to another. Humanitarian agencies and officials should be working together with the affected populations to achieve a resumption of their own control of their rights, and a better future.

Q. Specify the three types of ethical dilemmas which humanitarian assistance providers may face and the suggested methodologies for resolving each.

A.

ANSWER

Types of ethical dilemmas

1. Choices between options with conflicting merits and costs
2. Values of intended beneficiaries clash with those of humanitarian institutions
3. Ethical conflicts are perceived within a hierarchy of moral obligations

Methodology for resolution

1. Professional training provides skills to make most effective decisions

2. Mechanisms of participation and empowerment facilitate negotiated decision-making and problem resolution

3. Consensus around the sanctity of life can serve as the ultimate value superseding moral constrictions of military, economic and political interests