Navigating The Unknown: Understanding The Complex Relationship Between Humanitarian Aid and Civil Conflict

Authors:

Abstract: This article presents the findings of a comprehensive structured literature review on the impact of humanitarian aid on civil conflict, revealing a scarcity of empirical research despite the commitment of humanitarian organisations to conflict sensitive programming and interventions. The study proposes a novel conceptual framework outlining both exacerbating and mitigating effects of humanitarian aid on civil conflict, contributing to the literature. However, existing research is marked by ambiguity and inconclusive findings, with conflicting perspectives on whether aid prolongs or diminishes conflict. Methodological limitations, such as a lack of diversity in research approaches, are identified, emphasizing the need for varied techniques, and a focus on local dynamics and perceptions. The article underscores the urgency for further research to enhance understanding of the complex relationship between humanitarian aid and civil conflict dynamics.

Track: POLI

Keywords: humanitarian aid; civil conflict; protracted crises; literature review;