Routledge Focus on Media and Humanitarian Action

Humanitarianism is defined by assumptions that guide global solidarity, and posits that all peoples are part of the same humanity, no matter who they are, what they believe or where they live. These principles suggest that when media show the suffering of others, global publics respond in ways that facilitate disaster relief and help alleviate pain. But reactions to crises are also shaped by those who bear witness, tell the stories, share the data, and take the pictures of communities rocked by crises. Media content can also help humanitarians who seek to address root causes of disasters, or it can serve to obscure the causes in many ways.

This series explores the multiple intersections between media and the work of humanitarian actors, and offers critical analysis of media, its uses, its coverage, how it has changed, and how it is misused in the representation of humanitarianism. Authors identify cutting-edge uses of new media technologies, including big data and virtual reality, and assess the conventions of older legacy media. For movements toward global peace, all peoples should be represented at the table and have their voices heard, including those outside the media spotlight.