The role of rapid reaction forces : Predicating responsibility in cases of humanitarian crises

Since the end of the cold war, there has been increasing discussion of the need for conflict prevention, and more specifically rapid preventive action. The reality of this preventive need is exposed through the creation of a number of rapid reaction forces (RRFs), of which both NATO and EU RRFs are notable examples. Their development, however, has not resulted in a greater acceptance of their use for humanitarian purposes, or as a tool for saving human lives. In fact, there seems to be an underlying tension between the increasing need for rapid reaction capability, and the structural incapacity and political reluctance to get involved, especially militarily. The objective of this paper is to evaluate whether a RRF can constitute an adequate response to humanitarian crises. This is accomplished by first, examining the discourse surrounding the need for rapid reaction forces against the reality of the international community's rapid reaction capability, and second, by scrutinizing the ongoing debates surrounding the use of RRFs in humanitarian intervention, including the issues of indigenization, legitimacy, and interests.