Solving the Collective Action Problem: Policy Options for Future Humanitarian Interventions

Authors

  • Sumon Dantiki McGill University/University of Michigan (Fulbright Scholar)

Abstract

This paper looks at the problem of humanitarian intervention in a novel manner, treating it as a collective action problem, rather than simply a normative debate. As a result, it draws up a rich collective action literature and makes the argument that modern humanitarian interventions--from Bosnia to East Timor--ought to be placed within this framework of problems. If this premise is accepted, it further makes the argument that the optimal policy option, according to the collective action literature, would be a framework which maximizes the incentives and capabilities for regional organizations to intervene rather than international organizations.

Author Biography

Sumon Dantiki, McGill University/University of Michigan (Fulbright Scholar)

Sumon Dantiki is a Master of Arts student in the Department of Political Science at McGill. An American citizen, Mr. Dantiki is pursuing his graduate studies as the receipt of a J. William Fulbright scholarship. Prior to enrolling at McGill, he graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Michigan, where his senior thesis received "Highest Honors" from the Department of Political Science. While at the University of Michigan, he also served as editor-in-chief of the Michigan Journal of Political Science, the oldest undergraduate journal of political science in the United States. Upon graduation, he was awarded the University's Gerald R. Ford Award for public service and the Political Science Department's William Jennings Bryan Award for leadership. His work experience includes internships in the U.S. Congress, the Government Relations Department of the American Red Cross, and the nonprofit group Business Executives for National Security.

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Issue

Vol. 7 No. 3 (2004): Winter 2004

Section

CDAI Graduate Student Symposium Award Winners