The Future of Humanitarianism: A Conversation with the ICRC’s Pierre Krähenbühl

The growing number and complexity of emergency situations in the world today places increasing pressure on the humanitarian community to respond effectively. Humanitarian principles of independence and neutrality are being challenged by political and economic interests and by a growing field of actors encroaching into humanitarian space, including militaries and private sector corporations. Access to populations in need is becoming more difficult and security of humanitarian staff is under increasing threat. The way the humanitarian community addresses these challenges will have an impact not only on the lives of many people affected by conflict and natural disasters, but on the future of humanitarianism itself.

On November 24, Brookings will host Pierre Krähenbühl, director of operations for the International Committee of the Red Cross, for a discussion on the future of humanitarianism. Senior Fellow Elizabeth Ferris, co-director of the Brookings-Bern Project on Internal Displacement, will provide introductory remarks and moderate the discussion.

After the program, Mr. Krähenbühl will take audience questions.