logo
Science Portal
Copyright © Médecins Sans Frontières
v2.1.5145.produseast1
About MSF Science Portal
About
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use
Copyright © Médecins Sans Frontières
v2.1.5145.produseast1
Can aid switch gears to respond to sudden forced displacement? The case of Haut-Uele, DRC | Journal Article / Commentary | MSF Science Portal
Journal Article
|Commentary

Can aid switch gears to respond to sudden forced displacement? The case of Haut-Uele, DRC

Derderian K, Schockaert L
Download

Similar Content
Loading...
Loading...
Loading...
Abstract
How does the aid system respond when insecurity and sudden forced displacement occur in what has long been considered a stable, development context? Can longer-term aid interventions adapt when challenged to “shift gears” to address acute needs resulting from forced displacement? Based on observations from Médecins Sans Frontières projects in Haut-Uélé in northeastern DRC in 2008–2009, this article examines assistance to displaced populations and the residents hosting them in LRA-affected areas—above all, the stakes and dilemmas involved in responding to such a sudden-onset emergency in what international donors and the national government considered an area in development.

Initially, a much-needed response to violence and displacement failed to materialize, with little permanent humanitarian presence on the ground, while development approaches failed to adapt and meet emergency needs. Short-term contingency support was provided through development NGOs, but with limited scope and maintaining cost-recovery schemes for health toward an impoverished population facing an increasingly precarious situation. A long-term development approach was simply unable to respond to the sudden population increase and a fragile health situation.

Countries

Democratic Republic of Congo

Subject Area

displaced populationsarmed conflict

Languages

English
DOI
https://doi.org/10.25071/1920-7336.34354
Published Date
22 Mar 2010
Journal
Refugee Survey Quarterly
Volume | Issue | Pages
Volume 27, Issue 1
Dimensions Badge