Should states use military force for humanitarian purposes? This book provides practical and theoretical answers to this question. Including case studies such as Somalia, Rwanda, the Balkans, and more, it demonstrates why humanitarian intervention continues to be a controversial issue for the US, humanitarian organisations, and Western states.

Should states use military force for humanitarian purposes? Well known scholars and professionals come together in this book to provide practical and theoretical answers to this burning question. Case studies include Somalia, Rwanda, the Balkans, and East Timor, as well as the recent U.S. intervention in Afghanistan.

All the essays are clear and sophisticated and overall they provide a very effective overview of the military dimensions of humanitarianism.