There will always be a need for the United States to provide humanitarian assistance. This need arises from national security and foreign policy drivers, but also from — yes — a fundamental American moral imperative.
Whether to stabilize in a fragile setting, help responsibly manage possible migration following a natural disaster, prevent mass starvation, slow the spread of an infectious disease, or lessen disruptions to American business markets and supply chains, having a strong U.S. humanitarian response architecture is securely in America’s interest.
As humanitarian responsibilities shift from USAID to the State Department, we have a unique opportunity to rethink the system and create a new architecture that is smart and efficient. Below are nine key features to help ensure the U.S. has a robust humanitarian capacity.
About the authors
Jed Meline
Jed Meline is the director of policy and advocacy at Project HOPE and previously served as the director for health and humanitarian assistance at the National Security Council and as a deputy assistant administrator for humanitarian assistance at USAID.
Marcia Wong
Marcia Wong is a former deputy assistant administrator for humanitarian assistance at USAID and previously a U.S. State Department senior foreign service officer.
