There is a growing demand for clear, well-researched and thoroughly contextualized Humanitarian news. It is produced by a range of actors including mainstream media organizations, humanitarian campaigners and aid agencies. But there is little systematic research into how these groups define the term “humanitarian,” or what values, principles and understandings shape their approaches to journalism. Nor are there many empirical studies of the content and impact of humanitarian news, which often is influenced by the agendas of donors and international policy makers.
This year’s World Humanitarian Day marks a critical moment to recognize and stand with the millions of people who are displaced, suffering from famine or being killed by conflict or disaster. And to honor the thousands of humanitarian workers who are risking their lives to help them.
Two years of brutal civil war in Sudan have created a human catastrophe. Millions of people have been forced from their homes, the health care system is collapsing and famine is spreading. Despite the odds, remarkable stories of survival and resilience are emerging. This is the story of Khamissa, a woman who risked everything to save her grandchildren.