Abstract The International Committee of the Red Cross has instituted a number of changes that seem to transform this old and widely respected organization. These changes involve an expanded role,… Click to show full abstract
Abstract The International Committee of the Red Cross has instituted a number of changes that seem to transform this old and widely respected organization. These changes involve an expanded role, a fuller relationship with for-profit corporations, a search for new partners beyond the business world, a willingness to use standards in addition to international humanitarian law, and new management practices for a larger agency with different personnel. This article reviews the nature of the changes and evaluates whether they are well considered. The conclusion argues: there is indeed much change at the ICRC, complete evaluation will take time, and particular attention should be paid to two issues: the ICRC’s president being on the governing board of the World Economic Forum, and whether a humanitarian organization should urge others to make money in responding to disasters.
               
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