To the editor:
News of large-scale, successful humanitarian efforts typically result in warm feelings by those involved in such projects, tremendous gratitude by those previously suffering, and hope by those saved and many around the globe. Few think ahead to the possible or likely disastrous, misery laden, and dangerous consequences of large-scale good deeds. Such are the case with heroic efforts to save the many ongoing starving peoples of Africa, rescuing masses of AIDS victims in various nations of Asia and Africa, and dramatically reducing infant mortality in areas where it is the highest. All these merciful acts are laudable; but all carry with them after effects that, if not carefully considered, planned for, and funded, will result in consequences as bad or worse than the tragedies just solved.
Many large-scale life threatening problems like the ones described above occur in areas where over historic over population, multigenerational poverty, oppressive or unstable governments, poor agricultural infrastructure, ongoing warfare or its threats has and are threatening the area, and typically corrupt national and local leaders predominate.
These areas often are basket cases, regions where much of the help offered frequently end up in the possession of corrupt officials or local bandits.
When large numbers of such people are saved, they typically remain in those areas that are unable to offer sustainable life and therefore, they remain forever dependent of aid which almost never keeps coming. Massive efforts have to be made to resurrect the land, improve local knowledge of how to farm, improve or teach good health practices, institute acceptable governance, and cease tribal or cross border warfare or old troubles are sure to return. An alternative is to move these people to a stable place to live. Such efforts are usually beyond the abilities of helpers.
Also, if we save all the babies who die young, rescue most of the AID victims, and save those who regularly die of starvation without getting agreement from these folks concerning birth control and family planning, massive over population will result and the cycle of old problems starts anew.
Massive good deeds in poor, destitute regions require foresight and planning. They also require long-term dedication and commitment as the consequences need monitoring to assure success. Few noble big humanitarian efforts have the funding for long-term commitment not do staffs have the will to stay long term. It is a perennial dilemma that plaques big efforts.
Presque Isle
