Somalia: Crimes and Blunders

This work argues that it was crimes and blunders that created the famine and turmoil in Somalia. It describes the efforts of ordinary people - Somalis and some foreigners - to prevent the catastrophe which need not have happened.The authors argue: firstly, that the disaster had deep roots in the monstrous political-economic system of the country and in the bureaucratic inefficiency of the international relief system; and, secondly, that it could have beenprevented at any point by the international community working with active and concerned Somalis. This book provides the background to the case of Somalia and is addressed to concerned people in the international community. It explores when international intervention can be justified and examines how, if it happens, it can be done right.