Conceptual and theoretic foundations for humanitarian action
There are a lot of challenges to humanitarian doctrine. Some actors of the existing system of international relation are trying to use humanitarian action in realization of their strategic purposes. The aim of the research is to define the principles of humanitarian action. Humanitarian activities - a complex set of actions aimed at affected by armed conflict or natural disasters population. The main purpose of humanitarian action is to save human lives and alleviate suffering wherever they exist. There is a a striking difference between humanitarian action and humanitarian aid. Humanitarian aid is providedfor those who suffer from the impacts of armed conflict and natural disasters. It may include material goods and services, food, water, shelter, medicines and medical aid. But the needs of victims may include the need for protection from physical violence. The term humanitarian action covers all the above elements. The principles of humanitarian action are impartiality, neutrality, independence. Impartiality means that action must be solely based on the needs of the people affected by armed conflict or natural disasters, without discrimination between or within affected populations. Jean Pictet identifies three key elements of the principle of impartiality: non-discrimination, proportionality and inadmissibility of own judgment. Non-discrimination means the absence of objective discrimination on the basis of individual membership in a particular social group. According to the principle of proportionality] assistance should be provideded in accordance with the needs, that means to all parties to a conflict. The principle of the inadmissibility of own judgment in carrying out humanitarian action means that humanitarian workers should not try ro define who is guilty in the catastrophe or who is aggressor. But this element comes into conflict with the Charter of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. it is prohibited In the abovementioned statute to provide assistance to persons accused of committing international crimes. Another key principle of humanitarian activitiesis neutrality, that makes inadmissible to take someone's side in an armed conflict. The principle of neutrality also includes two key aspects. The first is ideological neutrality, which includes the obligation to treat all parties equally. Also another aspect of neutrality implies rejection of international organizations or countries that provide humanitarian assistance to participate in hostilities on someone's side. Another principle of humanitarian action is independence that means, autonomy of humanitarian objectives from the political, economic and military purposes. Humanitarian action should be action-oriented, it can not be done by force, but only on a voluntary basis. In addition it should be given only in the interests of those who need help.