Humanitarian Space Definition
The meaning of humanitarian space has been evolving since the 1990s. In general, it can be defined as ‘the physical and virtual spaces in which humanitarian action takes place, including the interfaces between them.’
This definition encompasses a broad range of activities and actors, from traditional relief work to longer-term development assistance, and from international organizations to grassroots NGOs. It includes both physical places (e.g., refugee camps) and virtual ones (e.g., social media platforms). And it acknowledges that humanitarian action takes place not only in response to crises, but also in more stable contexts where needs are chronic or recurrent.
