Humanitarian Diplomacy

The 20th century witnessed major developments and evolutions in the role of humanitarian diplomacy in the resolution of conflicts and in the promotion of human rights all over the world.

Confined at the beginning to the role of a public opinion galvanizer, humanitarian diplomacy grew to be the voice of the destitute, the disabled and Aids-victims. Wide media coverage, together with the support of political and showbiz figures and the involvement of devoted persons, helped NGOs acquire a worldwide respectability and influence. Today, the main question is: are NGOs mature enough to interfere in issues that are generally dealt with by governmental organisations?

The International Conference to be held in Lyon on the 12th and 13th of February 2008 aims to tackle the problem of the role of NGOs on the international scene, and notably the influence of humanitarian diplomacy on international cooperation and development. Lakhdar Brahimi, Henri Rouille D’Orfeuil, Pascal Boniface, and several other renowned figures will debate on the future of NGOs and their growing influence.

Contact us or join us in the International Conference on the Role of NGOs in Global Governance for further comprehensive details on the humanitarian diplomacy practiced by international NGOs.