The Role of Multilateralism in Addressing Global Humanitarian Crises: A Case Study of International Interventions in Gaza and Ukraine

Abstract

This study investigates the role of multilateralism in addressing global humanitarian crises through a qualitative, literature-based approach, focusing specifically on international interventions in Gaza and Ukraine. Drawing on a systematic review of ten scholarly articles and institutional reports, this research explores how multilateral frameworks—primarily under the auspices of the United Nations and related bodies—function in contexts marked by political complexity, ethical dilemmas, and operational constraints. The findings highlight that while multilateralism remains a normative and structural foundation for collective humanitarian responses, its effectiveness is often compromised by geopolitical interests, funding disparities, fragmented coordination, and selective implementation of international norms. The cases of Gaza and Ukraine illustrate both the potential and limitations of multilateral engagement: in Gaza, humanitarian access is heavily politicized and frequently obstructed, whereas in Ukraine, coordinated aid delivery faces challenges related to conflict dynamics and regional polarization. The discussion draws on liberal institutionalist theory and the concept of “organized hypocrisy” in international relations to critically assess the gap between normative commitments and practical outcomes. This study concludes that although multilateralism continues to be essential for humanitarian legitimacy and coordination, its future effectiveness will depend on institutional reform, greater regional integration, and enhanced local legitimacy. The paper recommends further research into regional multilateral responses and ground-level perceptions of humanitarian actors to better understand the evolving landscape of global crisis governance.