Tese de Mestrado DCI.pdf - UTL Repository

ABSTRACT
At the beginning of the 21 st century we are still faced with a bi-polarized world
between poor and rich countries. The former are marked by civil war where
conflict exists between local governments and groups of insurgents who are
fighting for self-governance or inclusion. Civil war is sustained by several factors
(natural resources, ethnic tension, diaspora) and causes serious damage to those
societies. International aid generally intervenes in this context, the basic
objective being to save lives and minimize human suffering.
This dissertation reflects upon the impact Official Development Assistance has
on prolonging such conflicts. On the one hand, international aid is linked to
political, economic and geostrategic interests that might determine donors’
behaviour and decisions. On the other hand, there are technical issues related to
the role of humanitarian actors and development agencies which might
negatively impact upon the dynamics of peace and war.
The hypothesis of the negative influence of aid is analysed in the case studies of
both the Sri Lankan and Angolan civil wars. Although it is undeniable that
international aid has played a crucial role in both countries, it may have been
characterized by some less positive aspects. International aid in these countries
may have interfered in political issues, going beyond the basic aim of aid
distribution in a neutral, impartial and universal way.
The predicament of aid in the context of civil war is dominated by a range of
problems and by the diversity of positions and approaches concerning principles,
aims and instruments.
This dissertation aims to explore ideas for future reflection with the primary
objective of improving the success of aid.
Key Words: Civil War, International Aid, Official Development Assistance,
Humanitarian Aid, Sri Lanka, Angola.
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