Glossary Term

Humanitarian action

The objectives of humanitarian action are to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain human dignity during and in the aftermath of human-made crises and disasters, as well as to prevent and strengthen preparedness for the occurrence of such situations. Humanitarian action has two inextricably linked dimensions: protecting people and providing assistance. It is rooted in humanitarian principles – humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence. See Humanitarian response.