"In this urgent response to the challenges of our day - Somalia, Bosnia, and beyond - an international team of experts addresses the responsibilities of providing assistance to civilian populations caught up in conflicts and disasters." "The human consequences of famine and disease, ethnic conflicts, and military aggression are all too visible to concerned citizens everywhere. How can human rights be protected in times of disaster? What is the role of international relief organizations? How can political diplomacy and health initiatives be brought together to ensure survival in a conflict-ridden world? This hard-hitting book, authored by renowned figures in medicine, political affairs, and humanitarian assistance, covers a wide range of crucial issues, from the plight of refugees to the economics of neglect. It eloquently demonstrates how global cooperation on health-related problems can open doors to political negotiation."--BOOK JACKET.Title Summary field provided by Blackwell North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved