Teoride ve pratikte insani yardim
Humanitarian Aid in Theory and Practice
Contributor(s): Muhammed Oruç (Editor), Elmas Bener Otaci (Editor), İbrahim Demir (Editor)
Subject(s): Business Economy / Management, Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Governance, Islam studies, Security and defense, Welfare systems, Economic development, Migration Studies, Socio-Economic Research, Sociology of Religion
Published by: Oku Okut Yayınları
Keywords: Humanitarian Aid; Theory; Practice; Religious Groups; Organizations; Crisis Management; Turkey;
Summary/Abstract: Natural disasters, poverty, conflicts and climate crisis cause more and more people in the world to become in need of humanitarian aid. Due to its geographical, geopolitical and historical location, humanitarian aid has become an issue of strategic importance for Türkiye. Frequent natural disasters in Türkiye, Türkiye’s proximity to chronic conflict zones, the concentration of communities in need of humanitarian aid in geographies in Türkiye’s sphere of influence, and Türkiye’s recent diplomacy/humanitarian diplomacy moves are the main reasons why humanitarian aid has become strategically important for Türkiye in theoretical and practical terms. To this, the lack of a ‘responsible’ and ‘conscientious’ leader or actor at the global level and the failure of international organizations to prevent conflicts must also be added. In such a theoretical and intellectual background and in the midst of the practical humanitarian aid realities culminating in the 2023-2025 Gaza Genocide, this book emerged from the papers presented at the First International Humanitarian Aid Symposium hosted by the Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies (ULİSA IIRSR) of Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University and organized in partnership with the Turkish Red Crescent, AYBU Technology Transfer Office, and Tirana New York University, in December 2024. The book deals with the issue of humanitarian aid from a broad perspective in the context of the reasons leading to humanitarian aid, the humanitarian aid process, and theoretical and practical discussions that can minimize the need for humanitarian aid. Book sheds light on the complex dimensions of humanitarian aid that fall within the field of disciplines such as economics, politics, sociology, psychology, health and theology. The book contains studies that focus on both theoretical analyses and field applications. The 13 chapters in the book offer a wide perspective, from the historical foundations of cooperation to digital solutions and artificial intelligence-supported systems. Prominent topics include Turkey’s humanitarian aid activities, new disaster management systems, religious and sociological dimensions of humanitarian aid, the relationship between migration and humanitarian aid, and the effects of modern technologies on humanitarian aid. Studies discussing these issues will make significant contributions to the academic literature and field studies. This book, prepared under the editorship of İbrahim Demir, Muhammed Oruç and Elmas Bener Otacı, offers an interdisciplinary perspective on humanitarian aid and aims to contribute to the development of humanitarian aid concepts, theories, and practices in the Turkish literature.
- E-ISBN-13: 978-625-95679-0-7
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-625-95679-0-7
- Page Count: 132
- Publication Year: 2024
- Language: Turkish
Çatışma Bölgelerinde İnsani Boyut: Yardım ve Güvenlik
Çatışma Bölgelerinde İnsani Boyut: Yardım ve Güvenlik
(Humanitarian Concerns in Conflict Zones: Aid and Security)
- Author(s):Altun Altun
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research, Peace and Conflict Studies
- Page Range:13-22
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Humanitarian Aid; Humanitarian Security; Conflict Zones; Humanitarian Law; Globalization;
- Summary/Abstract:Humanitarian aid in conflict zones has become one of the most significant elements of international politics in the establishment of security through the prevention of violence. Civilians living in these zones are exposed to humanitarian law violations, migration, poverty, and a set of threats experienced in access to basic services. In this context, humanitarian aid and humanitarian security may be considered two concepts that complement and support each other. While humanitarian aid facilitates humanitarian security by meeting the urgent needs of people, the ultimate goals of humanitarian security are the protection and prosperity of people. Security is among the main factors that determine relations on an international scale. The globalization process has led to the emergence of new threats and the transformation or aggravation of existing threats. The increase in the number of forms of threat, their transformation, and the need in the new world order established after the Cold War for a new security paradigm triggered the development of a new perspective in the field of security. Today, humanitarian security/individual safety is at the epicenter of security policies. While efforts to establish the framework continue in the academic and international spheres, at the same time, plans are designed regarding how humanitarian security can be achieved. Humanitarian crises in conflict zones are accepted as a global problem, and to solve this problem, international collaboration and coordination should be strengthened. This study examines the concepts of humanitarian aid and humanitarian security in detail and emphasizes the relationship between these concepts and their importance to the resolution of problems in conflict zones today.
Türkiye’nin İnsani Yardım Faaliyetleri ve Ekonomik Kazanımları İlişkisi
Türkiye’nin İnsani Yardım Faaliyetleri ve Ekonomik Kazanımları İlişkisi
(The Relationship Between Türkiye's Humanitarian Aid Activities and Economic Gains)
- Author(s):Azize Namdar
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Welfare systems, Economic development
- Page Range:23-29
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:Humanitarian Aid; Economic Gains; Official Development Assistance;
- Summary/Abstract:This paper seeks to answer the question of whether Turkey has made gains in its economic relations with countries to which it provides humanitarian aid. In order to reach the effects of direct state aid, bilateral official development assistance (ODA) is taken as a reference. In this context, the independent variable of the research is Turkey’s bilateral ODA in 2021, and the dependent variable is the amount of economic gains (EG) obtained from the relevant ODA countries in 2022. With these variables, the research includes a cross-sectional time dimension and a model that envisages obtaining quantitative data in survey type and analyzing them with appropriate programs. The quantitative data obtained from official institutional documents were analyzed using the IBM SPSS v.29 program. Syria was excluded due to its military and political differentiation in the aid process, and the research universe includes 119 countries with 938.16 million USD. Sample selection was based on the countries that received the highest amount of ODA through purposive selection technique. In the random checks among the countries with less than 1 million USD aid, the amount was limited to 1 million USD since the EG data of the relevant countries - foreign trade, tourism income - could not be reached and statistical tests were applied for 36 countries. Altruistic behavior, geopolitical interests and domestic policy interests are considered as the main drivers of humanitarian aid. The findings suggest that there is no significant increase in Turkey’s economic gains in terms of foreign trade and tourism revenues in return for increasing ODA. Moreover, although there is a positive relationship between the independent variable ODA amounts and the dependent variable economic gains, there is a low correlation well below the medium level. Contrary to the literature, the results of the regression equation do not indicate that Turkey can achieve international economic gains as a result of its humanitarian aid, considering the sample limitation.
Türkiye’de Yeni Bir Afet Yönetim Sisteminin Gerekliliği
Türkiye’de Yeni Bir Afet Yönetim Sisteminin Gerekliliği
(The Necessity of a New Disaster Management System in Türkiye)
- Author(s):Başak Eryilmaz
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Business Economy / Management, Governance, Security and defense, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:31-37
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:Sociology of Disaster; Risk Management; Actor-Network-Theory (ANT); Distributed Disaster Management System; Local Autonomy;
- Summary/Abstract:Minimizing the destructive effects of disasters and enhancing the resilience of communities against disasters are among the most important issues of our time. In the context of disaster management, the importance of achieving optimal integration in the risk management and crisis management processes involving local governments, public institutions, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations has been experienced through past disasters. Specifically, local governments need a new policy regulation to effectively and widely fulfill their responsibilities, such as conducting risk analysis and rapid intervention, with their renewed organizational structure. The aim is to propose the "Distributed Disaster Management System" model, where central and local governments, institutions, and organizations involved in the disaster management process will take responsibility for solutions, and integrated disaster management will be implemented at the local level through the development of rational and effective up-to-date policies. The use of Actor-Network Theory (ANT) and the concept of generalized symmetry is anticipated to help address the gaps in disaster management systems in a new disaster model.
Comparative Analysis of Cash-Based Assistance Programs: Insights from Türkiye and Colombia
Comparative Analysis of Cash-Based Assistance Programs: Insights from Türkiye and Colombia
(Comparative Analysis of Cash-Based Assistance Programs: Insights from Türkiye and Colombia)
- Author(s):Edvina Bihorac, Ali Polat
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Business Economy / Management, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:39-48
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Cash-Based Assistance; Turkiye; Colombia;
- Summary/Abstract:This study evaluates the cash-based humanitarian assistance programs implemented in Türkiye and Colombia, examining the social and economic impacts and challenges of these approaches. It seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of these programs in managing migration and crises, and to explore how experiences from different contexts contribute to each other and to international humanitarian aid policies. Türkiye’s model offers a centralized and extensive support mechanism for Syrian refugees, while Colombia has developed more flexible, community-focused solutions for Venezuelan migrants. Although both countries’ programs have been successful in addressing basic needs, issues such as social integration, financial sustainability, and coordination remain significant challenges. The study offers policy recommendations based on the experiences of both countries. It suggests that Türkiye enhance the participation of local actors and diversify funding sources, while Colombia develop long-term financing strategies and strengthen coordination mechanisms. The study proposes strategic solutions in the form of actionable policy recommendations to these problems and presents key findings regarding the potential of cash-based assistance in crisis management.
Dini Grupların Vitrini Olarak Yardım Organizasyonları: Deprem Bölgesi Panoraması
Dini Grupların Vitrini Olarak Yardım Organizasyonları: Deprem Bölgesi Panoraması
(Humanitarian Aid Organisations of Religious Groups in Türkiye: Panorama of the Earthquake Region)
- Author(s):Hamit Aktürk
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Islam studies, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research, Sociology of Religion
- Page Range:49-60
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Religious Group; İslamic NGO; Cemaah; Aid Organizations; Humanitarian Aid;
- Summary/Abstract:Religious grouping is a social and political reality in our country as it is all over the world. Like any grouping that is political in nature, religious groups need to open up to society from time to time, to introduce themselves, and to reorganize their relations with other groups, the rest of society and political authority. Disasters, crises and periods of depression offer this opportunity for religious groups. Times of natural or societal crisis are times when religious groups - especially their showcases, the affiliated NGOs - are revised/ breakthrough or evolve and transform. Rather than being pragmatic and reflexive, this is a kind of dynamism in which the energy accumulated inside is transferred to the outside. In this study, I first tried to make a classification of aid organizations. Then I tried to draw attention to the course of development of aid organizations affiliated with religious groups and the critical periods in this development. Then I examined the gap filled by aid organizations in religious groups as a showcase and the functions they undertook. Finally, I tried to map the İslamic NGO and religious group organizations in the earthquake region. While drawing my panorama of religious groups in the earthquake region, my main figures will be; the scope of the aid activities of the associations/foundations affiliated with the groups that came to the region for support, the choice of location, their relations with political authority and other groups, the types of people of the group members who came to help, the change of shifts, the experiences they gained, the symbols they carry, etc.
İnsani Yardım Bağlamında Îsâr Kavramına Tasavvufî Yaklaşım
İnsani Yardım Bağlamında Îsâr Kavramına Tasavvufî Yaklaşım
(Sufistic Approach to the Concept of Īsār in the Context of Humanitarian Aid)
- Author(s):Hüsna Elif Özsoy
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Islam studies, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research, Sociology of Religion
- Page Range:61-71
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:Humanitarian Aid; Īsār (Altruism); Sufism;
- Summary/Abstract:In this communique, explanations were made about the concept of īsār (altruism), which is one of the important concepts of Sufism, which expresses the ability to choose others over oneself, and an attempt was made to establish a connection within the framework of humanitarian aid. Thus, it was emphasized to the individuals who mobilize their material and moral resources in the field of humanitarian aid for people in need, that the responsibilities they have undertaken and the sacrifices they have made are recorded in the sight of Allah. As it is commanded in the āyahs, the emphasis that nothing done will be left unrequited supports them in terms of motivation, and in this way, it is aimed to express one aspect of the relationship between Sufism and humanitarian aid. This study will support the motivation of individuals who have not given up on their work despite witnessing extreme events and who have undertaken the responsibility of continuing their duties in the field of humanitarian aid by making their contributions to their own spiritual maturity more concrete. At the same time, it is important because it emphasizes that people who continue their humanitarian aid work are divinely supported and brings the relationship between Sufism and humanitarian aid to a theoretical ground. Qualitative research method was used in the research. First of all, among the concepts in the Sufi classics, the concept of îsâr was preferred and the concept was investigated. Later, the āyahs and hadiths associated with the concept of îsâr were identified. Then, books, theses and articles prepared on the concept of īsār and humanitarian aid were examined. In this way, the subject was discussed within the framework of the titles selected for the sourced study. In the introduction, brief information about humanitarian aid is given and the context of the subject is revealed. Under the heading of "Humanitarian Aid and Humanitarian Aid Workers", general information about humanitarian aid was given and information about humanitarian aid workers was given. In the title of "The Concept of Isâr and the Evaluation of the Concept of Isâr in terms of Humanitarian Aid", the concept of c was explained from the Sufi classics. Then, the relevant āyahs and hadiths were narrated. Then, accompanied by theses and articles on the subject, the contributions that the concept of īsār can offer to humanitarian aid are emphasized. In the conclusion section, the study was completed by emphasizing the connection between the concept of îsâr and humanitarian aid. Researchers who will work on this subject can contribute to the expression of the connection between Sufism and humanitarian aid from different aspects on a theoretical basis by discussing the relationship between different concepts of Sufism and humanitarian aid.
İnsani Yardım Faaliyetlerinde Asıl-Vekil Sorunu
İnsani Yardım Faaliyetlerinde Asıl-Vekil Sorunu
(The Principal-Agent Problem in Humanitarian Aid Activities)
- Author(s):İbrahim Demir
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:72-78
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:Principal-Agent Problem; Humanitarian Aid; Donation; Airport Syndrome;
- Summary/Abstract:The principal-agent problem is commonly encountered in social theory for transactions carried out by an agent of principal entity. The principal-agent problem refers to the misalignment between the principal’s maximization goals and the agent’s maximization goals in a transaction involving agency. Humanitarian aid is often carried out by intermediaries or agents, as donors’ direct assistance to those in need would be costly and technically difficult. For donors, which are the principals of humanitarian aid action, the subject, timing, place, and quality of the aid are crucial for utility maximization. For example, as a reflection of the principal-agent problem, the airport syndrome refers to the delivery of aid in a way that is easy to reach (low cost) but does not coincide with the donor’s objectives in terms of the location of the aid. Therefore, it is important to examine humanitarian aid activities in the context of the principal-agent problem in order to prevent the amount of donations from shrinking. In this context, this study explains principal-agent problems that may arise in humanitarian aid activities and discusses possible consequences. The study findings and recommendations will be useful in minimizing the problems encountered in humanitarian aid activities and will play a role in preventing potential contractions in the humanitarian aid sectors.
Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı Personellerinin Yurtdışı İnsani Yardım Faaliyetlerine Katkısının İncelenmesi: Almanya Örneği
Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı Personellerinin Yurtdışı İnsani Yardım Faaliyetlerine Katkısının İncelenmesi: Almanya Örneği
(Examination of the Contributions of the Personnel of the Presidency of Religious Affairs to International Humanitarian Aid Activities: The Case of Germany)
- Author(s):Muhsin Ali Köksal
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research, Sociology of Religion
- Page Range:79-83
- No. of Pages:5
- Keywords:Humanitarian Aid; Presidency of Religious Affairs; Abroad; Germany;
- Summary/Abstract:Since its establishment, the Presidency of Religious Affairs has always prioritized people with its studies in sociological and psychological fields; it has continued its studies without discriminating on the basis of religion, language, and race, and has thus managed to become one of the leading institutions of our nation. Over the years, in order to expand its activities in Turkey, it established the Turkish-Islamic Union of Religious Affairs in 1984 and carried its activities to an international level. The Turkish-Islamic Union of Religious Affairs aims to provide material and moral support to all people abroad, primarily our citizens, whether Muslim or non-Muslim. Our aim in this report is to examine the humanitarian aid activities of the Presidency of Religious Affairs personnel operating abroad from the past to the present, specifically in Germany, and to evaluate the changes over time by comparing them. Based on the concrete data in the sample studies, we aim to create a more efficient and comprehensive work plan in the new studies to be conducted. In our report, which will reveal the changes and developments between the examples of humanitarian work carried out in Germany between 1990-2000 and the activities carried out today, we will touch on the humanitarian aid activities that can be carried out in the future and we will try to underline the points that need to be taken into consideration while carrying out these activities. As a result, it will be emphasized that the material and moral aid works and international activities carried out by the Presidency of Religious Affairs on behalf of all humanity without any discrimination should be taken as an example by other official institutions and civil society organizations and should be continued by developing them.
Transforming Humanitarian Aid Operations with Digital Solutions and AI-driven Systems: A Comprehensive Framework for Foundations and NGOs
Transforming Humanitarian Aid Operations with Digital Solutions and AI-driven Systems: A Comprehensive Framework for Foundations and NGOs
(Transforming Humanitarian Aid Operations with Digital Solutions and AI-driven Systems: A Comprehensive Framework for Foundations and NGOs)
- Author(s):Musab Talha Akpinar
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Civil Society, Welfare systems, ICT Information and Communications Technologies, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:85-96
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Humanitarian Aid; Digital Solutions; Artificial Intelligence; Transparency; Crisis Management;
- Summary/Abstract:Humanitarian aid operations play a critical role in addressing crises, yet traditional approaches often suffer from inefficiencies in resource allocation, lack of transparency, and limited engagement with stakeholders. This paper examines the transformative potential of digital solutions and AI-driven technologies in optimizing humanitarian workflows, with a focus on foundations and NGOs. Utilizing a qualitative methodology, the study is based on semi-structured interviews with ten experts from leading humanitarian organizations, supported by field observations and document analysis. The research explores key themes, including the integration of digital platforms, real-time monitoring through IoT and GPS systems, predictive analytics for resource allocation, and blockchain-based systems to enhance transparency and accountability. The findings reveal significant operational benefits, such as improved logistics efficiency, with delivery times reduced by 30%, enhanced resource allocation through AI-driven decision-making, and increased donor trust facilitated by transparent reporting mechanisms. However, challenges such as high implementation costs, data quality issues, and resistance to change highlight the need for strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. To address these barriers, the study proposes a comprehensive framework emphasizing capacity building, scalable modular systems, and the integration of renewable energy solutions to ensure sustainability. The conclusion underscores the necessity of fostering collaborations among technology providers, donors, and humanitarian organizations to bridge the gap between traditional practices and innovative technological solutions. This research contributes to the field by offering actionable recommendations for leveraging digital technologies to create more efficient, transparent, and resilient humanitarian aid systems. The proposed framework provides a roadmap for NGOs and foundations to adopt emerging technologies, such as machine learning and interoperable platforms, paving the way for sustainable advancements in global crisis management. This paper demonstrates that by embracing digital transformation, humanitarian operations can achieve greater precision, responsiveness, and inclusivity, ultimately improving outcomes for vulnerable populations in need.
Humanitarian Aid and Migration
Humanitarian Aid and Migration
(Humanitarian Aid and Migration)
- Author(s):Nubar Huseynli
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Welfare systems, Migration Studies, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:97-105
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Awareness; Solidarity; Humanitarian Aid;
- Summary/Abstract:As a demand of globalized world, people frequently change their locations for various reasons. These situations can be categorized according to positive and negative factors. Positive factors include education, personal development, discovering new places, and so on, while negative factors include natural disasters, wars, hunger, and others. At any given time, during migration, people may need assistance. For this purpose, many international organizations, non-governmental organizations, unions, and others unite around a common goal is: Protecting human life and health. The protection of human life and health brings with it both material and spiritual needs. Material needs include food, clothing, housing, transportation, medical supplies, and so on. In addition, addressing spiritual needs involves dealing with issues such as stress, fear, post-crisis adaptation, and others. The main goal is to ensure that individuals who have emerged from a crisis are not only protected in terms of life and health but are also integrated back into normal society. The research relies on surveys and reports conducted by international organizations. These reports and surveys must be structured in a way that accurately reflects reality and utilize tools that produce precise and expected outcomes. The obtained results will ultimately ensure the decision-making process is carried out appropriately. Several guidelines exist for humanitarian aid, including those from the United Nations. Humanitarian aid is a right for everyone, and there is no distinction based on gender, language, religion, or nationality when it comes to assistance. The main objective is to expand awareness and cooperation in the field of humanitarian aid and solidarity.
Osmanlı Devleti’nde İnsanî Yardımın Bir Yönü: Duâgûyân
Osmanlı Devleti’nde İnsanî Yardımın Bir Yönü: Duâgûyân
(Perspective on Humanitarian Aid in the Ottoman Empire: The Duâgûyân Institution)
- Author(s):Songül Şenlik
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Political history, Social history, Modern Age, Welfare systems, The Ottoman Empire, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:106-113
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Ottoman Empire; Duâgûy; Humanitarian Aid; Sustainable Aid; Systematic Aid;
- Summary/Abstract:This study aims to understand the role of needy individuals, particularly among members of the duâgûy group that became institutionalized in the Ottoman Empire from the 16th century onwards, within the humanitarian aid practices of the state and society. It is known that individuals receiving social aid from the treasury and foundations in the Ottoman Empire included people with various social disadvantages, and that aid provided by the state was systematic and controlled. The target group of these humanitarian aid practices consisted of the sick, disabled, needy, students, retirees, poor, widows, and orphans—groups also represented among the members of the duâgûyân group, who received salaries despite holding no official duties. Eight percent of all duâgûy posts, allocated to those considered entitled for various reasons, were reserved for such needy individuals. While duâgûy positions granted for humanitarian purposes were permanent, the individuals assigned to these positions varied depending on the circumstances of the period. For instance, when a recipient’s deprivation ended or they acquired another source of income, the position would be assigned to another needy individual. This study argues that, within the framework of the humanitarian aid policies of the period, the state and benefactors made humanitarian aid sustainable by providing regular salaries to disadvantaged individuals in Ottoman society. Additionally, it emphasizes that these practices aimed to reduce social inequality and protect human dignity. The study highlights the historical dimension of the humanitarian aid understanding of the state and benefactors within the borders of the Ottoman Empire. It is anticipated that the findings of this study will contribute to further research in this field and in other disciplines.
7 Ekim Gazze-İsrail Savaşında İnsani Yardımların Sosyal Hizmet Disiplini Penceresinden İncelenmesi
7 Ekim Gazze-İsrail Savaşında İnsani Yardımların Sosyal Hizmet Disiplini Penceresinden İncelenmesi
(Examination of Humanitarian Aid During the 7 October Gaza-Israel War from the Perspective of Social Work Discipline)
- Author(s):Sümeyra Turgut, Şirin Kiliçdoğan
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Welfare systems, Socio-Economic Research, Peace and Conflict Studies
- Page Range:115-124
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Social Work; War; Humanitarian Aid; Gaza;
- Summary/Abstract:Social work is a discipline based on human well-being, it deals with each individual who is a victim of war, determines the necessary humanitarian aid and needs at the best level and makes the necessary interventions. This study defines the humanitarian aid needed by civilians living in a war environment in terms of social work discipline. In particular, the inhumane war experienced by Gaza, which has been under heavy bombardment and massacre by Israel before the eyes of the world since October 7, 2023, and its historical background is explained. Before this war, the ‘Gaza Strip’, or the Gaza embargo, was imposed on Gaza by Israel. This embargo disrupts the vital needs of Gaza and causes them to experience many economic, social and psychological difficulties. In addition, the October 7 war, which was a massacre, created women, children, the elderly, the disabled and many disadvantaged groups in Gaza. Israel has been killing Gazan civilians, namely women, children and the elderly, indiscriminately since October 7 and turning their living spaces into; They are causing moral and material damage by bombing homes, schools, places of worship, hospitals and workplaces. Inevitably, Gaza has urgent humanitarian needs in the fields of nutrition, shelter and health. The humanitarian needs due to the humanitarian crises they experience as a result of this inhumane war are expressed in the light of social service discipline. The method of the research will be used as a document analysis technique from qualitative research methods. Document analysis includes the collection of research data from many different documents, reviewing them, questioning them within the framework of the research question, and finding, reading, taking notes, and evaluating sources. In addition, providing additional data, providing an additional perspective, and compensating for possible bias that a single data collection method may bring, all of which pave the way for increasing the reliability of the study. The importance of the research is that, while conducting a literature review, it was determined that there was no similar study and that there were deficiencies in the literature on this subject. This study will contribute to the literature by providing information in the field of war and social services and expressing humanitarian aid practices.
6 Şubat 2023 Depremlerinde Yemek ve Kültür: Türk Kızılay’ının Yaklaşımı
6 Şubat 2023 Depremlerinde Yemek ve Kültür: Türk Kızılay’ının Yaklaşımı
(Food and Culture in the February 6, 2023 Earthquakes: The Turkish Red Crescent's Approach)
- Author(s):Yeşim Arslanoğlu
- Language:Turkish
- Subject(s):Business Economy / Management, Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, Socio-Economic Research, Peace and Conflict Studies
- Page Range:125-132
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Turkish Red Crescent; food culture; disaster management; humanitarian aid;
- Summary/Abstract:It is a known fact that cultural sensitivity and respect for local values are indispensable requirements in disaster management and humanitarian aid processes. Following the earthquakes that deeply shook Turkey on February 6, 2023, the Turkish Red Crescent not only met the physiological needs of disaster victims with the nutrition services it provided in disaster areas, but also concretely demonstrated its deep respect for local food culture and the importance it attaches to people. Planning the food aid provided by the Turkish Red Crescent in disaster areas in line with the cultural habits of the local people has increased the effectiveness and acceptance of this aid, and has enabled the aid to create a stronger social bond and sense of belonging. For example, offering lavash bread instead of loaf bread in Hatay, which suits the taste of the local people, or including local chickpea dishes in the menu in Gaziantep are concrete examples that show that cultural sensitivity and the value given to people are at the forefront in the Turkish Red Crescent’s disaster aid strategies. Food provided during disasters goes beyond being a mere physical need, and also functions as a tool that strengthens social ties and reinforces cultural identity. By encouraging the preservation of local and traditional dishes in disaster areas, the Turkish Red Crescent has ensured the continuity of cultural heritage, strengthened social solidarity and post-disaster social harmony. In this context, humanitarian aid efforts carried out with cultural sensitivity have ensured a high level of satisfaction among local people regarding the necessity and effectiveness of aid, and have had positive effects on post-disaster social and psychological recovery processes. The Turkish Red Crescent’s humanitarian aid strategies based on cultural sensitivity in disaster management have not been limited to meeting only physiological needs, but have also been shaped by respect for human dignity and commitment to cultural heritage. This approach provides a model that can serve as an example for other humanitarian aid organizations, and demonstrates that the cultural context is of utmost importance in disaster aid. In this context, the Turkish Red Crescent’s humanitarian aid strategies serve as a guide for other organizations as a model that does not ignore cultural sensitivity during disasters.
