International relief: What you need to know

<p>What&rsquo;s the difference between international relief, development aid and humanitarian relief? We&rsquo;ve got answers.</p>

By Rolf Rosenkranz // 18 May 2011
An member of the Australian Agency for International Development inspects a swamp forest in Indonesia. Photo by: John Estey / AusAID

International relief is a catchall phrase that encompasses humanitarian relief and development aid given by multilateral, bilateral or other donors to alleviate suffering and boost economic growth around the world.

This short- and longer-term assistance again goes by many names – emergency relief, humanitarian aid, international aid, overseas aid and development assistance, for instance. Other terms commonly used include official development assistance, official aid and international cooperation.

Read more about these different terms:

Read more international development news.