INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE: INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE OF PROVIDING HUMANITARIAN AID

Abstract

This article is devoted to the analysis of international practice in providing international humanitarian assistance, with a focus on the legal foundations and key features of this process. International humanitarian assistance is one of the key tools for supporting individuals and countries affected by armed conflicts, natural disasters, or other emergency situations. The article examines the international legal norms and agreements that govern the provision of such assistance, including the rules established in the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, as well as the mechanisms through which humanitarian aid is provided by states, international organizations, and other subjects of international law.Particular attention is given to the characteristics of providing humanitarian assistance in the context of international obligations, including the duties of states and organizations to adhere to the principles of neutrality, impartiality, independence, and universality. The article also analyzes the mechanisms for monitoring and controlling the use of humanitarian resources, as well as the problems that arise during the provision of humanitarian assistance, including access to affected areas, the effectiveness of coordination between states, international agencies, and NGOs, as well as the role of private individuals and companies in this process.The article outlines the following features of international humanitarian assistance: 1) іt is provided in accordance with the core principles of international humanitarian law, such as neutrality, impartiality, independence, and universality. This means that assistance should be provided without discrimination based on nationality, race, or religion and on the basis of equality for all affected individuals, regardless of their social status or political situation; 2) іt requires close cooperation between states, international organizations (such as the UN, Red Cross), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and private companies. Each party must fulfill its obligations within the framework of international agreements and protocols; 3) humanitarian assistance in the context of war or armed conflicts has its own specifics, especially compliance with the Geneva Conventions, which require the protection of civilians and ensuring their access to humanitarian aid even in cases where the territory is blocked by hostile forces; 4) an important aspect of providing international humanitarian assistance is the monitoring and control mechanisms, which ensure the effectiveness of the aid and prevent its misuse.International organizations typically carry out regular checks to ensure that the aid reaches those who truly need it; 5) іn the context of conflicts and crises, difficulties often arise with access to affected areas, especially when they are under the control of hostile forces. Key issues include ensuring the safety of humanitarian workers and enabling them to deliver assistance to those in need.It is stated that international humanitarian assistance is a set of resources and services provided by states, international organizations, NGOs, and other subjects of international law to mitigate the humanitarian consequences of armed conflicts, natural disasters, epidemics, or other emergency situations. It includes medical, food, and material assistance, as well as services for restoring housing, infrastructure, and livelihoods for individuals who find themselves in a crisis situation.